Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo has paid a profound tribute to the late Overlord of Dagbon, Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II, describing the revered traditional ruler as a historic symbol of unity, strength and cultural restoration whose reign renewed dignity and pride within the ancient Dagbon Kingdom.
In a statement issued on Monday, July 13, following the customary announcement from the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi confirming the passing of the Dagbon Overlord, the former President reflected on the life and leadership of the late monarch, highlighting his central role in one of Ghana’s most significant traditional reconciliation processes.
Nana Akufo Addo described Yaa Naa Abukari II as “a great figure of unity, strength and the enduring legacy of a proud and dignified people,” stating that the late King had joined a distinguished succession of Dagbon royals whose leadership contributed to the advancement of the kingdom over more than three centuries.
According to the former President, the late Yaa Naa’s place in Dagbon history would remain closely connected to efforts that restored stability and renewed confidence in a kingdom that had endured years of internal division.
“A great figure of unity, strength and the enduring legacy of a proud and dignified people, Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari II joins the illustrious list of Dagbon royals who have enabled the steady progress of Dagbon for over three centuries,” he stated.
The former President recalled the late monarch’s involvement in resolving the long standing Dagbon chieftaincy conflict, one of Ghana’s most complex traditional disputes, which created deep divisions within the kingdom following years of tension between the Andani and Abudu royal gates.
Before becoming Yaa Naa, the late King served as the Yoo Naa, the Chief of Savelugu, and was among the traditional leaders involved in the carefully negotiated process that eventually produced a pathway towards peace and reconciliation.
Nana Akufo Addo said the late monarch, together with two younger royal princes at the time, demonstrated maturity and respect by accepting recommendations aimed at finding a lasting solution to the exceptional circumstances confronting Dagbon.
“He and the two younger princes at the time, with mutual respect and affection, accepted my advice towards the implementation of the special solution to the special circumstances of the Dagbon Kingdom at the time,” he said.
The former President also reflected on his personal connection with the late traditional ruler, recalling the honour bestowed upon him when Yaa Naa Abukari II conferred on him the traditional title “Naa Abudani” during the 2020 Damba Festival.
The recognition, according to Nana Akufo Addo, represented an acknowledgement of his administration’s role in supporting the reconciliation efforts that helped bring an end to years of uncertainty surrounding the Dagbon throne.
“I was deeply honoured when he conferred on me the title ‘Naa Abudani’ in 2020, as recognition of my efforts towards the reconciliation process in Dagbon. It is an honour I will always treasure,” he stated.
The former President further described the late Yaa Naa’s reign as a period of renewed cultural confidence, unity and traditional revival, noting that Dagbon experienced a significant restoration of pride and identity under his leadership.
He stated that the late monarch’s years on the throne were marked by a resurgence of dignity and cultural strength across the kingdom, with the Yaa Naa becoming a figure associated with peace and national cohesion.
Nana Akufo Addo urged the chiefs, kingmakers and elders of Dagbon to protect the legacy of the late ruler by ensuring that the transition process following his death is conducted peacefully and strictly according to the customs and traditions of the kingdom.
“I urge the Chiefs, Kingmakers and elders of Dagbon to ensure that his legacy is cemented by ensuring a smooth and peaceful transition in line with the time tested customs and traditions of Dagbon,” he said.
The former President also welcomed the successful installation of a Regent to oversee the affairs of Dagbon during the transition period, calling on Ghanaians to stand with the people of Dagbon as they mourn their departed King.
The passing of Yaa Naa Abukari II has triggered nationwide expressions of grief and reflection, with political leaders, traditional authorities and citizens paying tribute to a monarch whose reign became associated with healing after decades of conflict.
Nana Akufo Addo, together with his wife Rebecca Akufo Addo, extended condolences to the royal family, chiefs, elders and the people of Dagbon, while praying for the peaceful repose of the late monarch.
“May his soul rest in perfect peace in the bosom of the Almighty until the Last Day of the Resurrection when we shall all meet again,” he said.
The death of Yaa Naa Abukari II marks the end of a significant chapter in Dagbon’s modern history, with his legacy expected to be remembered for his role in restoring unity, strengthening traditional authority and guiding the kingdom through a period of transformation after years of division.
