Judge Reverses Course — Daddy Lumba’s Funeral Not to Be Held on 13 December at Baba Yara Stadium

Plans for the highly anticipated funeral of Ghanaian highlife legend Daddy Lumba have been thrown into fresh uncertainty after a judge backtracked on an earlier court decision, leaving the previously scheduled 13 December funeral at Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi off the calendar.

A High Court injunction has now halted all preparation and blocked the funeral from taking place on the planned date, following a legal dispute over who has authority to oversee the late musician’s burial rites. 

Court Intervention Interrupts Funeral Arrangements

Earlier this week, preparations for the funeral — including seating and canopies at Baba Yara Sports Stadium — were already underway for the 13 December observance. However, on Friday morning, an Accra High Court issued a restraining order stopping further activity connected to the ceremony. All arrangements were effectively paused pending the resolution of ongoing legal challenges. 

Judge’s U-Turn Adds Confusion

Reports indicate that the judge initially appeared to clear the way for the funeral to proceed after certain conditions were not met by parties challenging the funeral plans. But a subsequent reversal of that position means the funeral can no longer go ahead as slated. 

The legal wrangling centers on disputes between family members and representatives over who has the customary and legal authority to conduct the funeral rites according to Ashanti tradition and Ghanaian law.

Public Reaction

News of the court’s decision has sparked strong reactions among fans and residents in Kumasi, with some expressing disappointment that the tribute to the music icon has been stalled just days before the date. 

What Happens Next?

At the moment, no new date has been officially announced by the family or their legal representatives. The matter is expected to return to court for further hearings to determine the correct process for the burial rites and rightful decision-makers.

About Daddy Lumba

Daddy Lumba, born Charles Kwadwo Fosu, was one of Ghana’s most celebrated musicians, influencing highlife music for decades. He passed away earlier this year, leading to nationwide mourning and plans for a major funeral celebration.