The recent passing of Daddy Lumba, the legendary Highlife icon, has sparked a heated debate in Ghana, with his children appealing for privacy and respect during their grieving process. Amid the controversies and legal battles surrounding his funeral and burial place, the family has issued a joint statement, emphasizing the private nature of these matters.
In a poignant appeal, the children of Daddy Lumba, Charles Kwadwo Fosu, urge Ghanaians to respect their privacy and allow them the space to honor their father in accordance with his wishes. They argue that the burial arrangements are private family matters and request that the public and media exercise restraint in their commentaries.
The statement highlights the emotional turmoil the family is experiencing, acknowledging the love and admiration the public has for Daddy Lumba. However, they assert that the decision-making process regarding his burial should be handled with sensitivity and respect for the family's wishes.
This appeal comes in the wake of a complex family dispute that emerged after Daddy Lumba's death on July 26, 2025, at The Bank Hospital in Cantonments, Accra. The dispute centered around funeral arrangements, estate administration, and family leadership, with his two wives and relatives divided into opposing camps.
The funeral, eventually held on December 13, 2025, was marked by legal battles, including a last-minute injunction filed by his sister, Ernestina Fosuh, which was overturned by the Accra High Court. Fresh controversies arose in March 2026 when claims emerged that Daddy Lumba was secretly buried within his private residence in East Legon, causing concern among Ga traditional authorities who uphold strict burial practices.
The family head, Abusuapanyin Kofi Owusu, faced consequences for his handling of the situation, being destooled on March 11, 2026, after failing to respond to an ultimatum. This further intensified the family's internal divisions and public scrutiny.
The children's plea for privacy and respect is a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between public admiration and personal grief. It underscores the importance of allowing families the time and space to mourn without unnecessary public scrutiny, especially in the face of such complex and emotionally charged circumstances.
