BY Grace Zigah
Akosua Serwaa, the woman claiming legal right as the wife of the late highlife legend Daddy Lumba, has finally spoken publicly following the Kumasi High Court’s ruling that declared both herself and Priscilla Ofori—popularly known as Odo Broni—as lawful surviving spouses.
The ruling, delivered on November 28, 2025, has reshaped the national conversation surrounding marriage, inheritance, and customary law in Ghana.
A Case Rooted in Years of Controversy
The legal battle began shortly after the death of Daddy Lumba, born Charles Kwadwo Fosu, whose contribution to Ghanaian highlife music spanned over four decades.
Behind the scenes, however, his personal life had long been a subject of speculation, with two women publicly presenting themselves as his legitimate spouses.
Akosua Serwaa maintained that she was the sole legally wedded wife, backed by statutory marriage certificates and years of cohabitation.
On the other side stood Odo Broni, who insisted that she was customarily married to the late musician and therefore entitled to recognition as a lawful spouse under Ghanaian customary law.
This conflict set the stage for what became one of the most high-profile widowhood disputes in recent memory, drawing the attention of legal experts, cultural commentators, and millions of fans.
Court Ruling: Two Wives, One Legacy
The Kumasi High Court’s ruling surprised many. After months of hearings and the review of legal documents, witness testimonies, and cultural evidence, the court held that both women qualify as surviving spouses under Ghanaian law.
The decision emphasized that the law must reflect the complexities of the dual legal system—where statutory marriage and customary marriage can coexist. The ruling rejected Akosua Serwaa’s attempt to be recognized as the sole surviving wife, instead acknowledging the legitimacy of both marital claims.
Legal analysts say the judgment sets an important precedent for future inheritance cases involving multiple marital systems.
Akosua Serwaa Speaks: “God Will Not Disappoint Me”
In a video message shared shortly after the ruling, Akosua Serwaa appeared in solemn black mourning attire, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support she has received since the case began. Her emotional tone reflected the weight of the legal and public battle she has endured.
“Those who hope in the Lord will never be disappointed,” she said, quoting scripture as she thanked family, friends, sympathizers, and her legal team.
She also acknowledged gospel musician Papa Shee, who has been a vocal supporter throughout the proceedings.
Serwaa urged her supporters to remain calm and to continue praying for her, saying the journey is not yet over.
Legal Team Announces An Appeal
Moments after her statement, her lawyer, William Kusi, announced that the legal team would appeal the ruling.
He insisted that the arguments establishing Serwaa as the only legal spouse remain strong and that the fight for exclusive recognition will continue at the Appeals Court.
According to Kusi, the High Court overlooked crucial elements of statutory marriage law, and the appeal will seek to correct what he described as a “misinterpretation of legal principles.”
