Judge questions need for dual marriage ceremonies in Ghana
Justice Dorinda Smith-Arthur, speaking during proceedings on a high-profile matrimonial dispute, noted that Ghana’s legal framework recognises each marriage type as fully valid on its own.
A High Court judge in Kumasi has openly criticised the increasingly common practice of couples performing both customary and ordinance marriages, describing it as unnecessary and financially wasteful.
Justice Dorinda Smith-Arthur, speaking during proceedings on a high-profile matrimonial dispute, noted that Ghana’s legal framework recognises each marriage type as fully valid on its own. Performing both, she said, offers no added legal benefit.
The judge’s observation came amid an ongoing case involving the estate of late highlife legend Charles Kwadwo Fosuh, widely known as Daddy Lumba.
The plaintiff, Akosua Serwaa Fosuh, is asking the court to declare her the musician’s only surviving legitimate wife and to grant her exclusive rights to perform widowhood rites.
She is challenging claims by Priscilla Ofori, popularly called Odo Broni, who also asserts spousal status.
The head of the Ekuona family at Parkoso, Abusuapanin Kofi Owusu, is named as the first defendant.
All witnesses have now completed cross-examination. The court is expected to issue judgment on Friday, 28 November 2025, in what has become one of the most closely watched family law cases in recent years.
