The Ruling Against Abusuapanin Kofi Owusu
On November 10, 2025, the subchiefs of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II made a significant ruling in the ongoing dispute involving Abusuapanin Kofi Owusu, the family head of the late highlife musician Daddy Lumba. The panel ruled against Kofi Owusu, stripping him of the authority to organize the funeral of the late musician and directing him to return all funds collected for the event.
This decision marked a major victory for Ernestina Fosuh, also known as Akosua Serwaa, who had been challenging Kofi Owusu’s control over the funeral arrangements. The panel also postponed the funeral from December 6 to December 13, signaling a shift in the dynamics of the case.
Background of the Dispute
The conflict between Kofi Owusu and Ernestina Fosuh began when the latter, along with her husband, sought to delay the funeral to allow for an autopsy to determine the true cause of Daddy Lumba’s death. This led to a court case at the Kumasi High Court on October 28, where the application was dismissed. The court ruled that Kofi Owusu, as the family head, held final authority over the funeral according to Ghanaian customs.
After losing the case, Ernestina Fosuh invoked the great oath, a traditional measure used by the Asantes to address what they perceive as a grave injustice. This invocation led to the formation of a panel of chiefs, including the Sumankwahene, the Dadiesoabahene, and Baffour Kantankrayie, to hear the case.
Directives from the Panel
Following the ruling, the panel issued several directives against Kofi Owusu. He was not only stripped of his authority but also ordered to return all funds raised for the funeral. These funds included donations collected during the one-week observance held at the Black Star Square in Accra after Daddy Lumba’s death on July 26.
Additionally, Kofi Owusu was directed to surrender all funds in a CAL bank account that had been established by the now-defunct funeral committee. This move aimed to ensure transparency and accountability in the handling of the funds.
Public Reaction and Social Media Response
The ruling sent shockwaves through the public, with many expressing sympathy for Kofi Owusu. A video showing him exiting the Manhyia Palace following the meeting sparked discussions on social media. Many users shared their thoughts, highlighting the emotional impact of the decision on the family head.
Implications of the Ruling
The implications of this ruling extend beyond the immediate issue of the funeral. It raises questions about the role of family heads in cultural and traditional matters, as well as the importance of transparency in financial management during such events. The involvement of the panel of chiefs underscores the significance of customary law in resolving disputes within the community.
As the funeral date is now set for December 13, the focus will shift to the preparations being made by the new organizers. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for similar disputes in the future, emphasizing the need for clear guidelines and procedures in handling funeral affairs.
Conclusion
The ruling by the subchiefs of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II marks a turning point in the dispute surrounding Daddy Lumba’s funeral. It highlights the complexities of traditional leadership and the importance of adhering to cultural practices while ensuring fairness and transparency. As the community awaits the next steps, the case serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between tradition and modernity in Ghanaian society.