The Kumasi High Court resonated with the sounds of highlife legend Charles Kwadwo Fosuh, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, last Friday as classical tracks of the late musician were played while a widowhood dispute case unfolded.
The unusual moment came after a scheduled witness, Osei Bonsu Sarfo Kantanka from the Manhyia Palace, was delayed in taking the stand for cross-examination.
Justice Dorinda Smith-Arthur, presiding over the case involving Akosua Serwaa Fosuh and Priscilla Ofori, also known as Odo Broni, asked: “Can’t we have some music sessions since the witness is not in?”
Members of the legal team consented, and lawyer Osei Owusu provided a laptop with a curated selection of Daddy Lumba classics.
Court attendees, including lawyers, journalists, and the litigants, listened as tracks from across the musician’s career filled the room.
The first song played was ‘Adaka Teaa’ from the 2003 album Bubra, which reflected on life and death.
Justice Smith-Arthur, visibly engaged, asked: “You don’t like the music or what? Why are you so stiff?”
At some point she is heard saying “That’s nice”, as one of the songs was being played.
Later, another track, ‘Menseida’ from the 1992 Playboy album, was played at the request of one of the lawyers, drawing smiles and nods from those present.
Songs such as ‘Sumuye Kasa’ and ‘Wo Nkoaa’ caught the attention of the presiding judge, who exclaimed, “Wow”, while the collaboration ‘Enhyie Wo’, a remix with Okyeame Kwame, capped the session.
During the music interlude, the usually tense court atmosphere softened, easing into a moment of reflection on the musician’s life and legacy.
The legal dispute centres on Akosua Serwaa Fosuh’s bid to be recognised as the sole surviving wife of Daddy Lumba and to perform widowhood rites at his funeral.
She has asked the court to prevent Odo Broni from presenting herself as the musician’s spouse.
The hearing is set to resume on Monday (24 November), with the 1st and 2nd defendants expected to call their witnesses.
