President Mahama Mourns the Passing of Dagbon Overlord Yaa Naa Abukari II | Discuss Ghana

President John Dramani Mahama has expressed deep personal sorrow and paid glowing tribute to the late Overlord of Dagbon, His Royal Majesty Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II, following his passing at age 87 after a brief illness.

The late monarch—who ascended the legendary Yendi Skin in January 2019 following the historic resolution of the decades-long Dagbon chieftaincy dispute—was laid to rest at the royal mausoleum (Katini) at the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi in accordance with Islamic tradition and Dagbon custom.

In an emotional tribute shared on his social media handles, President Mahama reflected on his decades-long relationship with the late king, dating back to his tenure as Yo Naa (Chief of Savelugu) during Mahama’s first presidency.

“Our father has passed. It is a sad moment for all of us,” President John Dramani Mahama wrote. “I’ve known him for many years, even when he was Yo Naa. We worked together to resolve the Dagbon crisis during my first presidency, and remained like father and son ever since. We have come a very long way together.”

“In this sad moment, on behalf of the Government and people of Ghana, I extend heartfelt condolences to the Dagbon Traditional Council, the Royal Family, the Chiefs and People of Dagbon, and all Ghanaians mourning this profound loss. His absence will be deeply felt... But Allah, the Master of the Universe, knows best, and we take solace in His will.”

A Legacy of Reconciliation and Peace

The passing of Yaa Naa Abukari II marks the end of a transformative seven-year reign that restored lasting peace, unity, and traditional stability to the Northern Region:

Historic Enskinment (2019): Selected as the 41st Yaa Naa in January 2019 after intense mediation by the Committee of Eminent Chiefs, his enskinment formally brought an end to 17 years of protracted conflict between the Abudu and Andani royal gates.

National Loss: Receiving a delegation led by Naa Yeb'Nanton Naa Mahamadu V at the Jubilee House on July 20 to formally announce the demise, President Mahama commended the royal family for preserving the late King's vision of unity.

Transition and Funeral Rites: Following the observance of the 3rd-day Islamic prayers (Adua), the 7th-day prayers are scheduled for Friday, July 24, while the official installation of a Regent (Kampakuya Naa) will take place on Friday, July 31, 2026.