Daddy Lumba’s Family Names Odo Broni as Recognised Partner: Legal Dispute Over Estate Emerges

Family of Late Music Icon Daddy Lumba Identifies Odo Broni as Surviving Partner Amid Estate Dispute

The family of the late Ghanaian highlife legend, Charles Kwadwo Fosuh, widely known as Daddy Lumba, has formally recognised Priscilla Ofori, popularly referred to as Odo Broni, as his surviving spouse, amid a brewing legal dispute over his funeral and estate.

This clarification comes in response to objections raised by Akosua Serwah Fosuh, a Germany-based woman who previously claimed to be the wife of the late musician. The development was disclosed in a legal letter dated October 1, 2025, signed by Fati Ali-Yallah of Baba Jamal & Associates, acting on behalf of the Fosu Royal Family of Parkoso and Nsuta.

Daddy Lumba remains one of Ghana’s most celebrated musical icons, with a career spanning over four decades and an influence that shaped modern highlife and Afrobeat. As tributes continue to pour in following his death, the question of who legally represents his legacy holds national cultural and legal significance.

The outcome of this dispute could set a precedent for customary vs legal marital claims in Ghana an issue that is increasingly relevant as more Ghanaians live abroad or have complex family dynamics.

According to the legal correspondence from the Fosu Family’s lawyers, Akosua Serwah Fosuh, who once lived with Daddy Lumba in Germany, allegedly failed to return to Ghana with him during his prolonged illness over a decade ago. The family asserts that her decision not to accompany him during his declining health amounts to marital abandonment.

Additionally, the lawyers claimed that Akosua Serwah had presented customary drinks, a traditional Akan process which signals the dissolution of a marriage. The family therefore maintains that her legal standing as a spouse is no longer valid under customary law.

The family’s lawyers identified Priscilla Ofori (Odo Broni) as the woman who lived with the musician for over 15 years until his death. The couple reportedly had six children together and shared a home throughout this period.

The family stated unequivocally that Odo Broni is the woman they recognise as the late musician’s partner, both based on lived experience and traditional recognition within the family structure.

Concerns have also been raised about who has the authority to plan the funeral and manage Daddy Lumba’s estate. The legal team clarified that no single individual, including Akosua Serwah Fosuh, has exclusive rights over funeral decisions or property distribution.

“All assets belonging to the late Charles Kwadwo Fosuh form part of his estate and will be administered in collaboration with his recognised children and the family,” the lawyers stated.

They further advised that no individual should attempt to claim or manage any of the properties until a full legal process has been completed, as the estate is subject to probate and traditional rites.

In a key revelation, the law firm disclosed that it had received specific instructions from Daddy Lumba before his passing, outlining his preferences for his funeral arrangements and the handling of his estate.

While the content of these instructions was not disclosed, the lawyers noted that it would guide the family in ensuring that his final wishes are respected and executed appropriately.

The Fosu Royal Family, through their legal counsel, urged all parties to refrain from public confrontations and instead work toward a peaceful, dignified funeral for the late icon.

“We call on all individuals, especially Madam Akosua Serwah Fosuh, to engage in dialogue and support efforts to give our brother and father a respectful send-off,” the family stated.

Ghanaian law often finds itself at the intersection of statutory and customary legal systems, especially in cases involving marriage, inheritance, and family recognition. Under Akan customary law, certain traditional actions such as presenting drinks to end a marriage are legally recognised.

Disputes like these are not uncommon in Ghana, particularly following the death of prominent individuals with multiple relationships, children, or properties across different jurisdictions. Legal experts have long called for more clarity and documentation to prevent such conflicts, especially when assets are involved.

As Ghana mourns the loss of one of its most influential music legends, the issue of who manages Daddy Lumba’s funeral and estate reflects broader themes about family, tradition, and legal responsibility. The emphasis on dialogue and calm from the family offers hope that the musician’s memory will be honoured respectfully, in line with his personal wishes and cultural values.

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