La Council Calls for Postponement of Daddy Lumba Event Amid Ongoing Noisemaking Restrictions

The La Traditional Council has formally appealed to the family and organisers of the late highlife legend Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, to postpone his one-week observance originally scheduled for Saturday, August 30, 2025, at the University of Ghana Stadium.

The request is in response to the customary ban on noisemaking currently in effect across the entire La Traditional Area, as part of the sacred Homowo Festival preparations. The ban commenced on Monday, August 11, 2025, and is set to end on Friday, September 5, 2025, at exactly 6:00 p.m.

At a press conference held in Accra, the La State Council, through the La Homowo Planning Committee, expressed its condolences to the bereaved family, friends, and admirers of the late musician while firmly reiterating the importance of upholding cultural traditions during this sacred period.

“We recognize and deeply mourn the loss of a true national icon whose music has impacted countless lives,” said Mr. Jeffrey Tetteh, Assistant Secretary of the La Homowo Planning Council. “However, tradition and spiritual obligations must guide our conduct. The noisemaking ban is not merely a restriction—it is a sacred observance.”

Why the Ban Matters

The annual ban on noisemaking is a deeply spiritual tradition observed by the Ga people, particularly in the lead-up to the Homowo Festival. During this period, the La Traditional Council and its elders engage in religious and customary rites that require a quiet, respectful environment.

The restriction applies not only to loud public events and amplified sound systems but also strictly prohibits all funeral activities, including wakes, processions, and any celebrations related to the commemoration of the deceased.

“This sacred season is when our chiefs and priests retreat into the spiritual realm to engage with our ancestors,” Mr. Tetteh explained. “As such, no disturbances—particularly those involving public mourning, loud music, or large gatherings—can be allowed.”

Coverage and Enforcement

The geographical extent of the ban covers the entire La Traditional Area, which stretches from the main La township through Maalejor on the Dodowa road, and reaches as far as Ayi Mensah at the base of the Aburi mountains.

The Council emphasized that anyone attempting to breach the ban within this area would face strict enforcement measures, including customary penalties and legal consequences.

“We will not compromise our heritage or spiritual obligations for any reason,” the Council warned. “Disregarding this directive will lead to serious repercussions. Our culture and traditions must be respected—by everyone.”

Not Against Honouring Daddy Lumba

While the directive may seem firm, the Council clarified that it does not oppose the celebration of Daddy Lumba’s life or legacy. Instead, it is calling for a rescheduling of the planned event so it can be conducted in full compliance with cultural norms.

“We are not saying the one-week observance should never happen. Rather, we are asking the family and organisers to shift the date to a more appropriate time after the ban is lifted,” Mr. Tetteh explained. “This will allow us all to participate respectfully and meaningfully.”

The Council assured the family of the late musician that once the ban is lifted, it will fully support and even participate in the commemoration of a man whose music has become an integral part of Ghana’s cultural identity.

Cultural Values First

The Council concluded by urging all event promoters, families, and the general public to respect the noisemaking ban as a pillar of Ga tradition and identity.

“This is about more than just tradition—it is about respect for a people’s way of life,” the statement emphasized. “The legacy of Daddy Lumba deserves to be celebrated in a way that honors not only him but also the cultural values we hold dear.”

As the countdown to the end of the ban continues, the La State Council remains committed to protecting the integrity of the Homowo Festival and the spiritual balance of the La community.