BY Nadia Ntiamoah
Ghanaian gospel musician Edward Akwasi Boateng, once celebrated for his inspirational songs and enviable success, is now entangled in a legal battle that has shocked fans and observers across the country.
The famed musician, who at the peak of his career owned 17 cars and numerous properties, has received a court summons from the Donyina Circuit Court—filed by his ex-wife, Genevieve Osei Boateng, who is currently residing in the United Kingdom.
Edward Akwasi Boateng married Genevieve in 1999 during a period when his music career was flourishing. At the time, the gospel industry thrived on cassette and CD sales, and Boateng was among the artists benefiting immensely. With steady income and widespread popularity, he lived comfortably with his wife, raising a family and acquiring multiple assets.
But the shift in the music business would later change the course of their marriage. As the era of cassette sales faded and the digital music market was still in its infancy, Boateng’s income stream began to collapse. The stability that once defined their union gradually weakened.
The Collapsed Home
According to Edward Boateng, financial hardship became the turning point in their relationship. While he struggled to adapt to the rapidly changing music economy, Genevieve—who was employed and earning her own income—began distancing herself emotionally and physically. Unknown to him at the time, she had reportedly built her own house in secret.
Edward Boateng recalls that minor disagreements suddenly became major conflicts. The atmosphere at home deteriorated steadily until, eventually, Genevieve abandoned the marriage entirely.
She reportedly disappeared for months and later resurfaced only to inform him that she wanted a divorce.
In keeping with Akan tradition, Genevieve sent the “etire nsa”—a symbolic gesture formally ending a marriage—to Boateng’s family. After the traditional divorce, she relocated to the United Kingdom to rebuild her life.
A New Life Interrupted by an Unexpected Blow
Edward Boateng says the last six years have been difficult but transformative. With resilience and renewed opportunities, he has slowly rebuilt his life and regained financial footing. Just as things began turning around, he received a letter on Monday that he describes as a heavy emotional setback.
The letter from the Donyina Circuit Court confirmed that his ex-wife, Genevieve Osei Boateng, has officially filed a lawsuit demanding half of his properties. This legal action comes despite the couple having lived apart for nearly six years and despite Genevieve reportedly owning her own home in the UK.
