Court delays ruling on application blocking release of Daddy Lumba’s body to Friday

The Accra High Court has adjourned its ruling on an application seeking to prevent the release of the remains of highlife legend Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, to Friday, December 12.

The case, filed by members of the late musician’s maternal family, centres on a dispute over who holds the traditional and legal authority to organise his funeral. The plaintiffs argue that under Akan custom, that responsibility rests exclusively with the maternal lineage. They contend that no other group has the mandate to take custody of his body or oversee funeral arrangements.

After hearing arguments from both sides, the presiding judge postponed the ruling to Friday. The court is expected to determine who legally has the right to organise the funeral, manage any memorial fund, and take custody of the musician’s remains.

Speaking to journalists, a representative of the Family Head and first defendant, Kweku Emmanuel Debrah, said the family respects the court’s decision and is committed to unity.

“We are waiting for the court ruling. We are all one people, so I don’t want to say something someone will disagree with. Wherever the ruling goes is a victory for us. If we understood each other, we wouldn’t have even come here; that’s why we brought it before the court,” he said.

“We are all waiting for the court, which has the final say, and whatever they say, we will abide by it and work together as a family.”

Highlife musician Papa Shee, who was in court to support the applicants, expressed optimism about the outcome.

“We are glad the judge listened to the lawyers and said we should come tomorrow for the ruling. I know that there will be victory,” he stated.