The ongoing legal drama surrounding the burial of highlife legend Daddy Lumba took a dramatic turn today, as the Accra High Court issued a new directive to his maternal family amidst the heated dispute over funeral arrangements. With the clock ticking toward Daddy Lumba’s scheduled funeral on Saturday, December 13, the court has ordered the late musician’s maternal relatives, who are contesting the burial plans, to deposit GH₵2 million by 2:00 p.m. today. The amount, the court explained, is meant to cover funeral-related expenses already incurred, in case the burial is later halted by a final court decision. This latest order comes after an earlier injunction stopped family head Kofi Owusu from organizing the funeral and prevented Transitions Funeral Home from releasing Daddy Lumba’s body. Lawyers for the maternal family objected strongly to the new directive. They argued that the court lacked jurisdiction to change its earlier injunction without a formal motion on notice. The legal team pointed out that the injunction was granted at 10:00 a.m. today and that no application for variation had been served, making the sudden order for a massive deposit both procedurally and logistically impossible. Raising GH₵2 million in under two hours, they added, was an insurmountable challenge. The applicants asked that the original injunction remain in place, proposing instead to sign an undertaking to pay funeral costs if required after the final resolution of the case. Their lawyers also cautioned that the court’s swift change in orders could send a misleading message to the public about the case’s status. On the other side, legal counsel for the respondents insisted that the applicants should cover the significant costs already incurred for the funeral, including invitations to dignitaries and contractor payments. They argued that the GH₵2 million figure was not enough, suggesting that the amount should be raised above GH₵5 million. They further urged the court to shorten the payment window and to authorize the release of Daddy Lumba’s body if the payment was not made, provided that all outstanding funeral home fees were settled. The respondents also sought clarification regarding the Daddy Lumba LBG Foundation account, as an earlier court order had directed that funds for the funeral be kept separate from the foundation’s finances. Ruling on the matter, the court clarified that no order was currently being made regarding the foundation or the second respondent. However, it held firm on the GH₵2 million condition: if the applicants fail to pay by the 2:00 p.m. deadline, Transitions Funeral Home is to release the body and allow the funeral to proceed, as long as outstanding fees are paid. With the court’s orders now clear, the stage is set for either a dramatic last-minute payment or the continuation of Daddy Lumba’s funeral as originally planned—a conclusion watched closely by fans and family alike as the legacy of a music icon hangs in the balance. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

The Accra High Court has issued an injunction halting the burial of legendary musician Daddy Lumba, following a petition from his maternal family. The legal move comes amid a heated dispute over funeral arrangements and the management of funeral funds. In the ruling delivered this week, the court restrained Kofi Owusu, the family head (Abusuapanyin) and first respondent, from organizing the burial until the substantive issues are resolved. Additionally, Transitions Funeral Home, the third respondent, has been barred from releasing Daddy Lumba’s body for burial. The judge, after reviewing affidavits from both sides, acknowledged that the late musician’s immediate family had been sidelined in the funeral planning process. While recognizing that the family head traditionally leads burial preparations, the court emphasized that this authority must be exercised in close consultation with the immediate family. The court also noted that postponing the burial could result in higher costs, but stressed that upholding due process and respecting family dynamics took precedence. As part of its directives, the court ordered Kofi Owusu to convene a stakeholder meeting within three weeks to agree on a new burial date that satisfies all parties involved. Furthermore, the judge instructed that all funds raised for Daddy Lumba’s funeral be kept separate from the accounts of the Daddy Lumba Memorial Foundation, ensuring transparency and accountability. The applicants were required to file an affidavit with the court registrar documenting compliance. This legal battle follows the passing of Daddy Lumba on July 26, 2025, at the age of 60. The dispute between his maternal relatives and the family head has roots in longstanding Akan customs, which grant significant authority to the maternal lineage in burial matters. As both sides seek to honor the late icon, the court’s decision aims to ensure that tradition, transparency, and unity prevail in laying Daddy Lumba to rest. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

At the vibrant Jamhuri Day celebrations in Kenya on Friday, December 12, 2025, President John Dramani Mahama delivered a powerful call to action to African leaders, urging them to prioritize economic independence and prosperity for the continent’s people. Standing before a gathering of dignitaries and citizens, President Mahama reminded the audience of Africa’s journey to political freedom. “Our forebearers won for us independence. It is the responsibility of our current African leadership to win economic independence and prosperity for our people,” he declared, his voice carrying both pride and urgency. Addressing the persistent challenges Africa faces in the global economic system, President Mahama lamented the continent’s longstanding role as a mere supplier of unprocessed raw materials while relying on imported finished goods. He stressed that this pattern must change if Africa is to achieve true prosperity. “The time has come for us to add value to our exports. The time has come to claim a fairer share of our natural resource endowment. The time has come to provide transparent and accountable leadership,” he stated, calling on African governments to embrace transformation and good governance. President Mahama also highlighted the continent’s greatest asset, its youth. He encouraged leaders to harness the creativity and energy of Africa’s young people, channeling their potential into productive industries and innovation. Central to his message was the importance of strengthening trade within Africa’s borders. “We must increase trade among ourselves, and we recommend a trade protocol within the African Continental Free Trade Area,” he urged, emphasizing the need for unity and collaboration to boost economic growth. As the celebrations continued, President Mahama’s words resonated with hope and determination, a vision of an Africa that moves beyond dependence, builds wealth from within, and secures a brighter future for generations to come. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

The fight against cybercrime in Ghana reached another milestone as the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Mr. Sam George, publicly commended the Cyber Security Authority for yet another successful operation against cyber fraudsters. Yesterday’s operation, which was spearheaded by Director-General Divine Selase Agbeti and the Authority’s dedicated Law Enforcement Unit, saw a coordinated effort with the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), and the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC). Together, these agencies joined forces to dismantle a network of cybercriminals, striking a significant blow against online fraud. In an official statement following the operation, Minister Sam George expressed his pride in the team’s commitment and effectiveness. He emphasized that such coordinated actions are essential, not only to protect ordinary Ghanaians from falling victim to online scams but also to preserve the nation’s international reputation in an increasingly digital world. “The message is loud and clear: we will come after anyone engaging in cyber-based crime, whether against Ghanaians or any other person,” Minister George declared. “For God and Country.” With operations like these, Ghana continues to strengthen its resolve in the digital age, sending a strong signal to cybercriminals that their actions will not go unchecked. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

A US federal grand jury has returned a two-count indictment against Ghanaian national Frederick Kumi, also known as Emmanuel Kojo Baah Obeng or “Abu Trica,” accusing him of defrauding elderly Americans of more than US$8 million. According to the recently unsealed indictment, Kumi, 31, was part of a criminal network that, since 2023, orchestrated romance scams targeting elderly victims across the United States. He was arrested in Ghana on December 11, 2025. Prosecutors say Kumi and his associates used Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to create fake identities and cultivate close, trust-based relationships with victims on social media and online dating platforms. The indictment states that the perpetrators exploited these relationships to solicit money and valuables under false pretences ,  including fabricated medical emergencies, travel expenses, and investment opportunities. “Victims were often elderly and engaged in romantic but physically distant relationships with perpetrators,” U.S. authorities explained, noting that scammers built credibility through frequent, intimate communication via phone, email, and messaging apps. Funds and valuables obtained from victims were then routed to co-conspirators posing as intermediaries. The indictment further alleges that after the transfers were made, Kumi, a resident of Swedru in Ghana’s Central Region, worked with accomplices to move the proceeds from Ohio and other U.S. states to partners in Ghana and other unspecified locations. Kumi is charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and a forfeiture count. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison. The statement by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Ohio, explained that if Abu Trica were convicted, a defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after a review of factors unique to this case, including a defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, his role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentences will not exceed the statutory maximum, and in most cases, it will be less than the maximum. An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt, the statement underscored, adding that a defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it is the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The statement revealed that the investigation that led to the indictment was conducted by the FBI Cleveland Division and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. McDonough for the Northern District of Ohio. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio thanked the Ghana Attorney General’s Office and Ministry of Justice, Ghana Economic Organised Crime Office (EOCO), Ghana Police Service (GPS), Ghana Cyber Security Authority (GCSA), Ghana Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) , Ghana National Intelligence Bureau (GNIB), U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s Sensitive Investigation Unit, U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, and FBI Legal Attaché Office in Accra for their cooperation with this matter. The mission of the Elder Justice Initiative Program, originating from the Elder Abuse Prevention and Prosecution Act of 2017 (EAPPA), is to support and coordinate the US Department of Justice’s enforcement efforts to combat elder abuse, neglect, financial fraud, and scams that target the nation’s elderly population. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

The Director-General of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service, Madam Yaako Donkor, has announced a heightened crackdown on unauthorised foreign exchange trading hotspots across Accra as the festive season approaches. Speaking at the CID Headquarters in Accra alongside Bank of Ghana officials, Madam Donkor revealed that an intelligence-led operation, conducted in partnership with the central bank, targeted key areas including Tudu, Kwame Nkrumah Circle, Airport, and Osu. “A total of 41 suspects, comprising both Ghanaians and foreign nationals, were arrested for engaging in unauthorised foreign exchange trading,” she disclosed to journalists. She strongly urged the public to conduct all foreign exchange transactions through licensed banks and approved financial institutions, warning that patronising illegal operators exposes individuals to fraud and other financial risks. The operation comes at a critical time, with the December in GH campaign attracting thousands of tourists and returning Ghanaians who depend on forex services. The CID emphasised that legal forex transactions not only protect customers but also promote financial discipline and bolster Ghana’s reputation as a secure and reputable destination. Madam Donkor reaffirmed the police service’s commitment to collaborating with regulatory bodies to sustain the fight against illegal forex trading and safeguard the integrity of Ghana’s financial system. Source: Apexnewsgh.com