Tributes Pour In for Fallen Yaa Naa
Tributes have continued to pour in from across Ghana and beyond following the passing of the Overlord of Dagbon, Ya Naa Mahama Abukari II.
The Dagbon King passed away on Sunday, July 12, 2026, after a seven-year reign that began in January 2019. Since the announcement of his death, the Government of Ghana, former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the European Union, the Embassy of Germany, the Australian High Commission, Minister of Education Haruna Iddrisu, among several other government officials, civil society organisations and religious bodies, have expressed their condolences to the people of Dagbon.
The late Ya Naa has been widely described as a symbol of peace, unity and wisdom, with many acknowledging his role in consolidating reconciliation and development in Dagbon.
President John Dramani Mahama, in his tribute, described the late King as a respected traditional leader whose reign contributed significantly to peace and stability in the Kingdom.
Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo also paid glowing tribute to the late Ya Naa, describing him as a leader who served his people with dignity, wisdom and commitment.
Former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia said the late Dagbon King would be remembered for his humility, statesmanship and efforts towards strengthening unity among the people of Dagbon. The NPP Presidential candidate added that though the King’s reign was short, it was impactful.
Bawumia’s wife, Samira also paid her tribute, saying the King’s legacy of leadership, peace and dedication to the Dagbang people will never be forgotten.
The European Union, through its Embassy in Ghana, expressed sadness over the passing of the King, acknowledging his contribution to peacebuilding and social cohesion.
The Embassy of Germany and the Australian High Commission also joined the growing list of institutions mourning the Dagbon Overlord, extending condolences to the royal family and the people of Dagbon.
Minister of Education Haruna Iddrisu described Ya Naa Mahama Abukari II as a father figure whose leadership brought dignity and stability to the Dagbon Kingdom.
Following his passing, the Regent of Dagbon, Kampakuya Naa Abukari Yakubu, has been outdoored to oversee the funeral rites of his late father and manage the affairs of Dagbon until a substantive Ya Naa is selected by the Kingmakers in accordance with tradition.
Ya Naa Mahama Abukari II ascended the throne in January 2019 after years of traditional processes aimed at restoring peace and unity in Dagbon. His death brings an end to a seven-year reign marked by efforts to promote reconciliation, development and cultural preservation.
The third day Islamic funeral rites for the Yaa Naa is slated for Thursday, July 16, 2026.
Meanwhile, a book of condolence has been opened for the late King at Gbewaa Palace in Yendi.
Credit: Iddrisu Kumbundoo
