The Kumasi High Court 5 has officially commenced hearings to determine the legality of the alleged civil marriage between Akosua Serwaa Fosuh and the
The Kumasi High Court 5 has officially commenced hearings to determine the legality of the alleged civil marriage between Akosua Serwaa Fosuh and the late highlife legend Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba.
The case, which has stirred significant public interest, also addresses who holds the legal right to perform the late musician’s widowhood rites.
The proceedings were presided over by Justice Dorinda Arthur, who admitted multiple exhibits, including a power of attorney, which allowed Georgina Osei-Bonsu, sister of the plaintiff, to represent her in court as the first witness.
The legal team for Akosua Serwaa presented a witness statement, documentary evidence, and legal instruments in support of their claims
During the session, the judge requested that original documents, particularly the marriage certificate, be submitted to replace the photocopies that had initially been admitted into evidence.
This step was necessary to verify the authenticity of the plaintiff’s claims.
Cross-Examination of Plaintiff’s Representative
The defence teams, representing the first defendant, Abusuapanin Kofi Fosu, and the second defendant, Priscilla Ofori (Odo Broni), began cross-examining Ms. Osei-Bonsu.
The examination sought to challenge the validity of the alleged marriage and questioned whether Akosua Serwaa was indeed legally recognized as Daddy Lumba’s wife.
However, due to time constraints, the cross-examination by the second defendant’s legal team could not be completed.
Consequently, the court adjourned the hearing to Wednesday, November 19, 2025, and announced that sessions would continue daily until Friday, November 21, to allow adequate time for all evidence and testimonies to be presented.
Funeral Plans Proceed Amid Legal Dispute
Prior to the hearing, the court refused the plaintiff’s application for an injunction to halt the final funeral rites of Daddy Lumba, which have been rescheduled to December 13, 2025.
The refusal was based on a balance of convenience, considering which party would suffer greater losses if the funeral were delayed.
The judgment allows the family to proceed with burial preparations while the legal dispute is still ongoing.
Background of the Legal Battle
Daddy Lumba, who passed away on July 26, 2025, was a legendary figure in Ghanaian highlife music.
His death sparked a dispute over his personal and familial legacy, particularly regarding who qualifies to perform widowhood rites. Akosua Serwaa claims to be the lawful wife entitled to these rites, while Odo Broni, also asserts rights over the same.
The controversy over the marriage certificate, which reportedly lists Akosua Serwaa’s birth name as Akosua Serwaa Schindler, has added another layer of complexity to the proceedings, with the defence questioning its authenticity.
Next Steps
With the hearings scheduled to continue daily, the court has indicated that a final judgment will be delivered on Monday, November 25, 2025.
The outcome is expected to clarify the legal standing of Akosua Serwaa and the rights of competing parties regarding funeral rites, ensuring the late musician’s burial proceeds without further dispute.
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