By Issah Olegor
What was announced as a major spiritual intervention for the family of the late highlife icon Daddy Lumba has instead unfolded as a controversial and widely questioned gathering, after Evangelist Papa Shee’s three-day intercessory prayer programme recorded very low patronage at Obra Spot in Accra.
The event, organised in honour of Daddy Lumba’s first wife, Akosua Serwaa, was intended to serve as a spiritual intervention programme, focusing on prayer, deliverance, and intercession for her personal and legal struggles following the musician’s death.
However, despite heavy publicity and expectations of massive support, attendance at the venue remained visibly sparse, triggering public backlash and intense reactions on social media platforms.
Despite the poor turnout, Papa Shee proceeded with the programme as scheduled, conducting preaching sessions, prayers, and deliverance activities for those present. Videos and images circulating online showed empty spaces at the venue, raising questions about public confidence in the initiative and whether the programme resonated with the wider fan base of Daddy Lumba and his family.
The low patronage quickly became a trending topic online, with critics questioning the relevance, timing, and intent of the programme, particularly given the complex legal and family disputes currently surrounding Daddy Lumba’s
Death, Disputes, And Family Divisions
Daddy Lumba’s death in July 2025 marked the beginning of a deeply polarised period within his family. What initially appeared as mourning soon evolved into multiple legal battles, traditional disputes, and estate conflicts, particularly involving the status of his wives and control over his legacy.
At the centre of the controversy is Akosua Serwaa’s legal attempt to be recognized as the sole surviving wife of the late musician — a claim that has faced strong resistance in court and opposition from other parties within the family structure.
Her legal battle has become one of the most visible aspects of the posthumous disputes surrounding Daddy Lumba’s estate.
Papa Shee’s Role And Growing Controversy
Papa Shee has emerged as one of Akosua Serwaa’s most vocal supporters, publicly aligning himself with her cause and frequently appearing in the media to defend her position in the estate dispute. His involvement, however, has not been without controversy.
Members of “Team Legal Wives,” a fan-based support group aligned with Akosua Serwaa, have accused Papa Shee of embezzlement, alleging that funds raised to support her welfare and legal struggles were mismanaged or misused.
Although Papa Shee has not formally been cited of any wrongdoing, the accusations have further damaged public trust and intensified scrutiny around his activities.
Estate Feud And Rivalry With Odo Broni
The spiritual programme also takes place against the backdrop of a long-running feud between Akosua Serwaa and Daddy Lumba’s second wife, Odo Broni, over inheritance, recognition, and control of the late musician’s estate.
The rivalry has extended beyond the courts into the public space, with both sides commanding loyal supporters and social media followings, turning a private family dispute into a national public spectacle.
Public Reaction And Online Backlash
The low turnout at the prayer event has amplified online criticism, with many social media users describing the programme as poorly timed, misdirected, and insensitive to the legal realities of the estate battle.
Others questioned whether spiritual programmes should be used to influence or frame ongoing legal disputes.
