President John Dramani Mahama has described the death of Ya-Na Abukari II, Overlord of the Dagbon Kingdom, as a national loss, paying tribute to the late traditional ruler for his commitment to peace, reconciliation and national unity.
The President made the remarks on Monday, July 20, when a delegation from the Dagbon Traditional Council formally informed him of the Ya-Na’s passing at the Presidency.
On behalf of the government and people of Ghana, President Mahama extended his condolences to the royal family, chiefs and people of Dagbon, describing the late overlord as a respected statesman whose leadership transcended political, ethnic and religious differences.
“The passing of Ya-Na is not only a moment of profound grief for Dagbon, but it is a national loss,” the President said.
“Ghana has lost a statesman amongst traditional rulers, a man whose wisdom, moderation and commitment to peace earned him the respect of people across political, ethnic and religious divides.”
President Mahama noted that Ya-Na Abukari II ascended the Dagbon skin during one of the most challenging periods in the kingdom’s history but successfully transformed it into a symbol of reconciliation, unity and hope.
“His reign demonstrated that true leadership is measured not by power, but by the ability to heal divisions and unite people behind a common purpose,” he stated.
The President commended the late Ya-Na for consolidating peace among the royal gates of Dagbon, describing his efforts to promote unity as one of his enduring legacies.
Recalling one of the late King’s guiding principles, President Mahama quoted him as saying: “I love those who build bridges of peace, but I do not like those who destroy the peace.”
“These were not merely words; they became his guiding principle throughout his reign and an enduring lesson for all of us,” he added.
President Mahama also praised Ya-Na Abukari II for spearheading institutional reforms within the Dagbon Kingdom, particularly the preparation and adoption of the Dagbon Constitution, which he said has strengthened governance, succession and stability.
Beyond Dagbon, the President said the late overlord played a significant role in promoting national cohesion through mediation and dialogue among traditional authorities.
He cited the Ya-Na’s historic visit to the Yagbonwura, which paved the way for the establishment of a joint Dagbon-Gonja committee to address longstanding boundary disputes between the two traditional areas.
President Mahama further revealed that he personally benefited from the late King’s counsel on national issues, describing his advice as thoughtful, balanced and always guided by the welfare of his people and the unity of Ghana.
He assured the Dagbon Traditional Council of the government’s support throughout the mourning period and expressed confidence that the late Ya-Na had laid a solid foundation for a smooth succession.
“We shall work closely with the Dagbon Traditional Council to ensure that the appropriate state courtesies and support are extended as preparations are made for the final funeral rites of our departed king,” he said.
The President concluded by praying for Allah to grant Ya-Na Abukari II eternal rest and expressed hope that his legacy of peace, wisdom, reconciliation and selfless service would continue to inspire future generations.
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