Thousands of mourners gathered at Independence Square on August 30, 2025, for the one-week observance of Highlife legend Daddy Lumba’s passing.
Organised by the Creative Arts Agency in collaboration with the Fosu family, the event was one of several commemorations planned to celebrate Daddy Lumba’s life and legacy, prior to his burial.
However, among all that took place at the event, a few notable moments stood out. They are as follows:
Massive Contributions
The commemoration saw an outpouring of financial support from some of the prominent figures.
Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo donated GH¢100,000, while former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia presented GH¢50,000.
Businessman and politician Kennedy Agyapong contributed GH¢10,000, with Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh adding GH¢5,000.
The Ghana Police Service also gave GH¢30,000, and Alan Kyerematen’s Movement for Change supported with GH¢5,000, among other top donations.
Performances
Music took center stage at the commemoration as some artistes performed in tribute to the late legend.
Gospel singer Obaapa Christy inspired the crowd with renditions of her hit songs, W’asue Me and Wagye Me.
Highlife musician Kofi Nti, a close protégé of Daddy Lumba, not only performed but also shared memories of the mentorship he received from the late legend.
Veteran musicians such as Amakye Dede, Pat Thomas, Poozo Hayes, and Nana Adomako Nyamekye also thrilled mourners with their performances.
Political figures in attendance
The gathering also drew notable political leaders who came to pay their respects.
Among them were former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, and Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh.
Representatives of Alan Kyerematen’s Movement for Change were also present, alongside New Patriotic Party presidential hopeful Kennedy Agyapong and Dr Henry Kwabena Kokofu.
From the opposition, the Minority Caucus of Parliament attended under the leadership of Afenyo-Markin.
Celebrities in attendance
The entertainment community turned out in their numbers to honour one of its greatest contributors.
Amakye Dede, Sarkodie, Kojo Antwi, Diana Asamoah, Kwabena Kwabena, Gyakie, Oheneba Kissi, K. Owusu, Emelia Brobbey, Ras Levi, comic actor Salinko, and many others were present.
Display from Ghana Horseriders Association
Members of the Ghana Horseriders Association staged a display in memory of Daddy Lumba. The stunts, including the Spanish walk, captured the attention of the crowd.
At one point, a horse threw off its rider and fell.
Odo Broni crying uncontrollably
One of the most emotional moments of the event was when Odo Broni, Daddy Lumba’s second wife, was overwhelmed with grief and remained inconsolable throughout the ceremony.
Despite efforts from family members and close friends to comfort her, she broke down in uncontrollable tears.
AK/EB