![Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo [right], late Overlord of Dagbon, Yaa-Naa Abukari Mahama II [left]](https://www.citinewsroom.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Akufo-Addo.png)
Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has paid tribute to the late Overlord of Dagbon, Yaa-Naa Abukari Mahama II, describing him as a symbol of unity whose reign restored dignity and pride to the Dagbon Kingdom.
In a statement shared on X on Monday, July 13, Akufo-Addo said he had received news of the customary announcement by the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi confirming the passing of the Dagbon overlord.
He described the late Yaa-Naa as “a great figure of unity, strength and the enduring legacy of a proud and dignified people,” adding that he joins the long line of Dagbon royals who have contributed to the kingdom’s progress for more than three centuries.
“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 said.
The former President recalled the late King’s role in resolving the protracted Dagbon chieftaincy dispute, noting that Yaa-Naa Abukari Mahama II, then the Chief of Savelugu (Yoo Naa), played a key part in efforts that eventually led to his enskinment as Yaa-Naa during Akufo-Addo’s presidency.
“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,” Akufo-Addo said.
He also reflected on being conferred with the traditional title “Naa Abudani” by the Yaa-Naa in 2020 during the first Damba Festival celebrated after the King’s enskinment.
“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.
Akufo-Addo said the late monarch’s reign was marked by “a rapid resurgence of dignity, pride, unity and cultural renaissance across Dagbon.”
He urged the chiefs, kingmakers and elders of Dagbon to preserve that legacy by ensuring a smooth and peaceful transition in accordance with 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 enskinment of a regent and called on Ghanaians to support the people of Dagbon during the mourning period.
Akufo-Addo, together with his wife Rebecca Akufo-Addo, extended condolences to the family of the late Yaa-Naa, the chiefs, elders and people of Dagbon.
“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.
I have been informed that the customary announcement serving notice of the sad passing of His Majesty Yaa – Naa Mahama Abukari II, overlord of the Dagbon Kingdom has been issued by the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi.
A great figure of unity, strength and the enduring legacy of a proud… pic.twitter.com/uQpbXeqE7o
— Nana Akufo-Addo (@NAkufoAddo) July 13, 2026
