VIDEO: Daddy Lumba Widowhood Rites Dispute: Court Adjourns Case to October 28
The Kumasi High Court has adjourned to October 28, 2025, a case filed by Akosua Serwaa, who claims to be the lawful wife of the late highlife icon, Daddy Lumba. The case, which has drawn wide public interest, seeks a declaration confirming her as the sole individual entitled to perform the widowhood rites of the late musician.
Daddy Lumba, born Charles Kwadwo Fosu, passed away on July 26, 2025. His family has announced that his final funeral rites will be held on December 6, 2025, at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi. However, the legal dispute could cast uncertainty over those plans.
In her suit, Akosua Serwaa is challenging Kofi Owusu Fosu, the head of Lumba’s extended family, and Priscilla Ofori, also known as Odo Broni, over who should rightfully perform the widowhood rites. She is also seeking an injunction to prevent Odo Broni from publicly presenting herself as the late musician’s wife.
During Thursday’s hearing, lawyers for the defendants told the court they had filed a motion questioning Akosua Serwaa’s capacity to initiate the legal action. But the presiding judge, Her Ladyship Justice Mrs. Dorinda Smith Arthur, declined to hear that motion, explaining that it was not listed for consideration on the day’s schedule.
Counsel for the plaintiff, William Kusi, argued that the court should proceed with their pending injunction application to restrain the defendants from interfering in the widowhood rites.
After listening to both sides, Justice Smith Arthur urged the parties to consider an amicable resolution, adding that the court would give the case priority if it continues. The judge directed all parties to file their responses within 14 days before adjourning proceedings.
Speaking after court, Mr. Kusi expressed concern that prolonged litigation could affect preparations for the funeral, which is barely two months away.
In her affidavit, Akosua Serwaa maintains that she is the legally wedded wife of Daddy Lumba and that her marriage to him remained valid until his passing. She also claims that neither she nor her children were consulted before the family announced the funeral date — which they reportedly learned about on social media.
She further alleges that after the musician’s death, Odo Broni surfaced, claiming to have been married to him and to have had children with him. According to Akosua Serwaa, the family head, Kofi Owusu Fosu, has since indicated that Odo Broni will be allowed to perform the widowhood rites, a decision she describes as unlawful.
She insists that unless the court intervenes, she will be wrongfully denied her rightful place as the only legally recognized spouse of the late musician, whose legacy continues to resonate across Ghana’s music scene.
