High Court Halts Daddy Lumba’s Burial as Family Dispute Deepens

The Accra High Court has placed an injunction on the burial plans for the late Ghanaian Highlife legend, Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, following a petition by his maternal family. The ruling temporarily restrains the family head, Kofi Owusu, from moving ahead with funeral preparations until the court settles the underlying dispute over who has the rightful authority to coordinate the burial.

As part of the injunction, the court further ordered Transitions Funeral Home not to release the musician’s body to any party until the matter is conclusively resolved.

Court Concern Over Marginalisation of Immediate Family

In delivering the ruling, the presiding judge noted that affidavits submitted by the applicants indicated that the musician’s immediate family had allegedly been excluded from burial arrangements. Although the court acknowledged that a delay could come with financial implications, it insisted that due process, transparency, and proper family consultation must guide the funeral.

The court clarified that although the Abusuapanyin traditionally leads funeral rites in Akan culture, that authority must be exercised in close coordination with the nuclear family.

The judge subsequently directed the family head to convene a broad stakeholder meeting within three weeks to agree on a new burial date and address all related concerns.

Additionally, the court ordered that funds raised in connection with the funeral be separated from any accounts belonging to the Daddy Lumba Memorial Foundation, ensuring no conflict of interest. The applicants have also been asked to file an affidavit with the court registrar.

Background: A Family Rift After a National Icon’s Passing

Daddy Lumba passed away on July 26, 2025, at the age of 60, leaving behind a legacy unmatched in the Highlife music genre. His death sent shockwaves through Ghana and the global music community, with tributes pouring in from top musicians, political leaders, fans and international music platforms.

However, soon after his passing, disagreements emerged between his maternal family and his recognised family head over who should oversee his burial and how funeral donations and memorabilia revenue should be managed. The tensions reflect long-standing Akan traditions, which give considerable authority to the maternal lineage in funeral matters. Yet, in modern family systems, such authority often clashes with the expectations of spouses and children.

Who Was Daddy Lumba? A Brief Biography

Born on 29th September 1965 in Nsuta, Daddy Lumba became one of Ghana’s most celebrated musicians, releasing over 30 albums across a career spanning more than four decades. Known for hits such as Aben Wo Ha, Yɛnyɛ Wo Sre, Theresa, Sika Asem, and Woho Kyere, Lumba pioneered a modernised Highlife sound that influenced generations of musicians.

He began his music journey at Juaben SHS and later formed the Lumba Brothers with the late Nana Acheampong after migrating to Germany in the 1980s. The duo revolutionised Burger Highlife before Lumba launched a highly successful solo career. His distinct vocals, lyrical storytelling and mastery of love and social commentary cemented him as a cultural icon.

What Has Happened Since His Passing

Following his death:

Nationwide vigils were held across Accra, Kumasi and Düsseldorf (Germany), where he lived for many years.

The Ghana Music Rights Organisation (GHAMRO) announced plans to establish a music scholarship in his honour.

Fans created multiple digital memorials celebrating his life and work.

Several of his albums re-entered music charts locally and abroad, reflecting a sharp increase in global streaming.

The government hinted at the possibility of a state-assisted funeral, subject to family agreement.

But these plans have stalled due to the unresolved disagreements now before the court.

The Road Ahead

With the injunction now in place, all parties must return to the negotiation table under the court’s supervision. Until an agreement is reached, the body of the late Highlife legend will remain at Transitions Funeral Home.

Ghanaians and music lovers worldwide continue to await a dignified and unifying farewell for the man many regard as one of the greatest Highlife musicians of all time.