Daddy Lumba’s death: Family ‘shattered’, urges respect for privacy
Ghana is reeling from the sudden loss of Highlife legend Charles Kwadwo Fosu, widely known as Daddy Lumba, whose death on Saturday, July 26, 2025, has plunged the nation into mourning.
He passed away at the Bank Hospital in Accra at age 60.
In the wake of this heartbreaking news, the family has made an urgent appeal for privacy, emphasizing that they are in a deep state of shock and pain.
Speaking on behalf of the family, their legal representative, Fati Ali Yallah, expressed the raw emotion that has gripped Daddy Lumba’s loved ones.
“It’s devastating. The family is overwhelmed, shocked and in deep pain. They’re not in a state to speak publicly. Frankly, I’m shaken myself. It’s a very difficult moment,” Ms. Yallah said in an interview on Saturday.
She explained that the decision to publicly confirm Daddy Lumba’s passing was made out of necessity, as unverified reports and speculation began spreading rapidly on social media.
“Due to the flood of misinformation online, the family asked us to officially announce his passing. There were so many conflicting reports, we needed to set the record straight,” she stated.
This move underscores the difficult balance that families of public figures must strike in the digital age managing the narrative while navigating personal grief.
In Ghana, the death of a cultural icon like Daddy Lumba inevitably sparks national conversation and speculation, making it essential for the family to control how the information is shared.
Ms. Yallah made it clear, however, that the family has chosen to keep all other details such as the cause of death and funeral arrangements strictly confidential for now.
“The family has instructed that no further information be released at this time. We are respecting their wish for privacy, and nothing more will be disclosed unless the family permits it,” she emphasized.
She also assured the public that a more detailed, official statement would be released at an appropriate time, once the family is ready.
This approach delaying full public disclosure while offering a verified initial statement is a common and respectful practice among families of prominent individuals, allowing them space to mourn privately while addressing public concern.
Born in Nsuta Amangoase, Daddy Lumba was a towering figure in Ghanaian music, known for fusing traditional Highlife with contemporary elements.
His prolific career spanned more than three decades and produced over 30 albums.
Timeless hits like “Aben Waha,” “Sika Asem,” and “Theresa” earned him a place among the greatest icons in Ghana’s musical heritage.