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Court Declares Both Akosua Serwaa and Odo Broni as Surviving Wives of Daddy Lumba

A Kumasi High Court has ruled that both Akosua Serwaa Fosuh and Priscilla Ofori (Odo Broni) are surviving wives of the late Daddy Lumba.

A Kumasi High Court, presided over by Justice Dorinda Smith-Arthur, has delivered a landmark ruling in the dispute over who qualifies as the rightful surviving spouse of the late highlife icon, Daddy Lumba.

The court held that Akosua Serwaa Fosuh cannot be declared the sole surviving wife, as evidence presented failed to sufficiently establish her exclusive marital claim.

The case stemmed from a heated disagreement between two women—Akosua Serwaa and Priscilla Ofori, popularly known as Odo Broni—each asserting the right to perform widowhood rites for the celebrated musician.

Their competing claims prompted the intervention of the High Court to determine who should be recognised in accordance with the law.

During proceedings on Friday, November 28, the court examined various pieces of evidence related to the marital history of Daddy Lumba. The judge confirmed that Odo Broni was customarily married to the late musician prior to his death.

The court also acknowledged that Akosua Serwaa entered into a customary marriage with him as well. However, a German marriage certificate tendered by Akosua Serwaa as proof of a civil marriage was rejected.

Justice Smith-Arthur ruled that the document could not be accepted because it was an extract rather than an original certificate, casting doubt on its authenticity.

In her judgment, Justice Smith-Arthur declared that both women must be recognised as surviving wives of the late musician. She directed that the Abusuapanyin acknowledge both parties during the performance of widowhood rites, stressing that no individual or faction should obstruct the removal or burial of Daddy Lumba’s body.

The court also referenced its earlier dismissal of Akosua Serwaa’s injunction application, which sought to halt funeral arrangements planned by the musician’s extended family.

The judge reiterated that under Ghanaian customary law, the body and burial rites of a deceased person belong to the matrilineal family, not the spouse.

This ruling brings clarity to the long-contested matter and sets the stage for the final funeral rites of one of Ghana’s most beloved highlife legends.

Also read: https://thebreakingdesk.com/daddy-lumba-one-week-observation-august-30/