Doing Both Customary and Ordinance Marriages Is Unnecessary – High Court Judge
Justice Dorinda Smith-Arthur explains that each marriage type is legally valid on its own, making dual ceremonies unnecessary
- High Court Judge Dorinda Smith-Arthur says doing both customary and ordinance marriages is unnecessary and wasteful
- Each marriage type is legally valid on its own under Ghanaian law.
- Case involves Akosua Serwaa Fosuh seeking recognition as the sole lawful spouse of the late Daddy Lumba
A High Court Judge in Kumasi, Justice Dorinda Smith-Arthur, has criticized the practice of conducting both a customary and an ordinance marriage, describing it as unnecessary and a waste of time and resources.
She explained that under Ghanaian law, each type of marriage is independently valid and legally recognized, making the performance of both ceremonies simultaneously superfluous.
Justice Smith-Arthur made the remark while presiding over a case filed by Akosua Serwaa Fosuh, who is seeking a declaration that she is the sole lawful surviving spouse of the late highlife legend Charles Kwadwo Fosuh, popularly known as Daddy Lumba.
The first defendant in the case is Abusuapanin Kofi Owusu, while Priscilla Ofori, also known as Odo Broni, is listed as the second defendant.
Cross-examinations of all witnesses have concluded, and the court is expected to deliver its ruling on Friday, November 28, 2025.
