The High Court in Kumasi has dismissed a lawsuit filed by Akosua Serwaa, ruling that she is not the only surviving spouse of the late Ghanaian highlife icon Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba. The landmark ruling was delivered on Friday, November 28, 2025, by Justice Dorinda Smith Arthur.

Akosua Serwaa had asked the court to declare her as the sole lawful spouse of the late musician and the only person entitled to perform widowhood rites at his funeral. She argued that her marriage to the legend was conducted under civil law, making her the only legitimate wife.

Court Finds No Evidence of Civil Marriage

However, in a detailed 74-page judgment, the court held that Akosua Serwaa failed to prove that a civil marriage existed between herself and the late musician. According to the court, the relationship between the two was a customary marriage, not a civil one.

This finding meant she could not be recognized as the exclusive spouse of the deceased.

Odo Broni Recognized as a Wife

The judgment further revealed that Priscilla Ofori, popularly known as Odo Broni, who lived with Daddy Lumba in Accra and had six children with him, was also legally considered a wife. The court’s decision affirms her status as a spouse with full rights under Ghanaian law.

The ruling followed weeks of controversy surrounding funeral arrangements. Earlier, the family head had announced that both Akosua Serwaa and Odo Broni would perform widowhood rites, an announcement that sparked tension and ultimately led to the lawsuit.

Court Leaves Widowhood Rites to Family

In its decision, the court emphasized that the family of Daddy Lumba holds the authority to determine which of the wives will perform the widowhood rites.

Certified copies of the judgment will be available on December 1, 2025, according to court officials.

Daddy Lumba, one of Ghana’s greatest highlife musicians, passed away on July 26, 2025, at the Bank Hospital in Accra at age 60.