The Kumasi High Court has dismissed an application by Akosua Serwaa Fosuh, who sought to be legally recognised as the sole surviving spouse of the late highlife legend Charles Kwadwo Fosuh, popularly known as Daddy Lumba.
In a landmark ruling delivered by Justice Dorinda Smith Arthur, the court held that both Akosua Serwaa Fosuh and Priscilla Ofori — known popularly as Odo Broni — qualify under Ghanaian law as surviving spouses of the deceased musician.
The decision comes after weeks of legal tension surrounding preparations for Daddy Lumba’s final funeral rites, scheduled for early December. Akosua Serwaa, who lives in Germany, had petitioned the court to grant her exclusive spousal recognition and to bar Odo Broni from participating in widowhood rites. She also sought an injunction preventing Abusuapanin Kofi Owusu, head of the extended Fosuh family, from continuing funeral arrangements involving Odo Broni.
Court affirms both women as surviving spouses
Justice Smith Arthur ruled that Akosua Serwaa could not conclusively prove she remained the musician’s wife at the time of his passing. Odo Broni, however, established evidence of a valid customary marriage and her long-term relationship with Daddy Lumba, with whom she shares six children.
The court subsequently directed Abusuapanin Kofi Owusu to ensure both women participate fully in all widowhood rites and funeral traditions — a decision that effectively ends the dispute over who holds legitimate spousal status.
Evidence presented and testimonies heard
The court heard from five witnesses: three for Akosua Serwaa, and one each for Abusuapanin Kofi Owusu and Odo Broni. Among the evidence was the civil marriage certificate between Akosua Serwaa and the late musician, which was admitted despite challenges over its authenticity.
A key testimony came from James Beniako Boateng, a tax analyst who said Daddy Lumba publicly stated that his marriage to Akosua Serwaa had ended during his 2010 customary marriage ceremony with Odo Broni. He testified that the couple lived together at Tantara Hills and later East Legon, where they raised their six children.
Judge urges unity as funeral plans move ahead
In her ruling, Justice Smith Arthur urged both women to put aside their differences and focus on ensuring the renowned musician receives a befitting funeral. She described her approach to the case as “firm, decisive, and often light-hearted,” drawing praise from lawyers on both sides for her handling of the complex dispute within a short timeline.
The decision clears the way for the family to proceed with funeral arrangements, with final rites set for 13 December 2025.
Family legal team clarifies its role
Following the ruling, Baba Jamal and Associates, representing the Fosuh family, clarified that they do not represent Odo Broni in order to avoid a conflict of interest, given their previous role as Daddy Lumba’s legal counsel. They reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding the late musician’s estate throughout the funeral process.
The dismissal of Akosua Serwaa’s injunction removes a key legal obstacle, allowing the family to coordinate widowhood and funeral rites with the participation of both recognised spouses. The judgment is widely seen as bringing closure to a long-running legal dispute, enabling loved ones and fans alike to prepare for a dignified farewell to one of Ghana’s greatest highlife icons.
