Absent wife, defiant fans: Kumasi gives Daddy Lumba a farewell to remember

As thousands of mourners converged on the Heroes Park in Kumasi to bid farewell to legendary highlife musician Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, the absence of his first wife, Madam Akosua Serwaa, stood out conspicuously. 

Although some of her children, led by Calvin Fosu, were present to pay their last respects to their father, their mother was nowhere to be seen. 

The children’s heartfelt tribute drew widespread admiration, with many mourners praising them for honouring their father despite the circumstances. 

In contrast, Daddy Lumba’s other wife, Priscilla Ofori, popularly known as Odo Broni, was present with her family. 

Each mention of her name attracted loud applause from the crowd, reflecting the public’s support. 

Her tribute to her late husband proved deeply emotional, leaving many mourners heartbroken as she eulogised him and highlighted his enduring musical legacy.

The absence of Madam Akosua Serwaa was largely anticipated, following her unsuccessful lawsuit seeking to be declared the sole legitimate surviving widow of the late musician. 

Meanwhile, a heavy downpour temporarily interrupted the funeral proceedings but failed to dampen the spirit of mourners. 

Many stood resolutely in the rain, determined to show their love and loyalty to the music icon. 

Contrary to expectations, the nearly hour-long rainfall did not reduce attendance instead, even more people thronged the venue after the rain subsided. 

Driven by admiration for Daddy Lumba, mourners danced to his hit songs, transforming the sombre occasion into a carnival-like celebration of his life and music. 

The crowd also erupted with excitement as prominent personalities and celebrity mourners arrived, welcoming them with cheers and applause. 

The scenes at the Heroes Park captured the depth of Daddy Lumba’s influence, a farewell marked not only by grief, but by resilience, unity and music that continues to bind his fans together, even in the rain. 

Source: GNA