A delegation from Dagbon has paid a courtesy call on the Okyenhene, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin, to formally inform him of the passing of the Overlord of Dagbon, Ya-Na Abukari II.
The delegation also extended an invitation to the Okyenhene to participate in subsequent activities following the burial of the late Ya-Na.
The delegation was led by Naa Bapir Pishigu-Lana Alhassan Andani, Paramount Chief of the Pishegu Traditional Area, and included Naa Bapir Sakpe-Naa Hon. Alabira, Paramount Chief of the Sakpe Traditional Area; Naa Dachi Tapha Mahamadu III, Paramount Chief of the Dalung Traditional Area; and Naa Dachi Nyankpal-Lana Mohammed, Paramount Chief of the Nyankpala Traditional Area.
Other members included Mohammed Adam Gariba, Registrar of the Northern Region House of Chiefs; Chief Issah Munkaila, Medina Dagbamba-Naa; Chief Awudu Abdallah, Kasoa Dagbamba-Naa; Chief Sulley Mohammed, Amehire Dagbamba-Naa; and Alhaji Salifu, Secretary to the Greater Accra Dagbamba-Naa.
Leader of the delegation, Naa Bapir Pishigu-Lana Alhassan Andani, highlighted the strong relationship between the late Ya-Na Abukari II and the Okyenhene, describing it as a bond that goes beyond individuals and will endure for generations.
He informed the Okyenhene that Ya-Na Abukari II answered his ancestors’ call on July 11, 2026, and was buried on July 13, 2026, in accordance with Muslim and Dagbon traditions.
The delegation also announced that the seventh-day prayer ceremony was held on July 24, 2026, at the Gbewaa Palace.
They further invited the Okyenhene to the installation ceremony of Kampakuya-Naa Yakubu II as the Regent of Dagbon, scheduled for Friday, July 31, 2026.
In response, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin paid tribute to the late Ya-Na Abukari II, praising his contribution to maintaining peace and unity in Dagbon.
The Okyenhene described the late Ya-Na as “a towering symbol of peace, unity and statesmanship,” noting that his reign helped bring an end to one of the most difficult periods in Northern Ghana’s history through the peaceful resolution of the Dagbon chieftaincy crisis.
“His leadership demonstrated that dialogue, reconciliation and mutual respect remain the surest foundations for lasting peace,” Osagyefuo said.
He added that Ya-Na Abukari II’s tolerance, wisdom and compassion helped redefine traditional leadership as a tool for national cohesion and development.
“He was the epitome of tolerance, wisdom and compassion. These rare qualities enabled him to redefine traditional leadership as a powerful instrument for national cohesion and development,” he said.
Osagyefuo urged the Kingmakers of Dagbon and the entire Dagbon State to preserve the peace, unity and development that the late Ya-Na championed throughout his reign.
The Okyenhene also recalled with gratitude Ya-Na Abukari II’s acceptance to serve as Special Guest of Honour during celebrations marking the 20th anniversary of his ascension to the Ofori Panin Stool.
“His passing is a tremendous loss to Ghana. Okyeman has lost a cherished brother, a respected father figure and a trusted friend. His legacy of peace, reconciliation and visionary leadership will continue to inspire generations yet unborn,” Osagyefuo said.
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