President John Dramani Mahama has described the death of Ya-Na Abukari II, Overlord of the Dagbon Kingdom, as a national loss, praising the late traditional ruler as a statesman whose leadership promoted peace, reconciliation and unity.
Addressing a delegation from the Dagbon Traditional Council at the Presidency on Monday, July 20, 2026, after being formally informed of the Ya-Na’s passing, President Mahama extended condolences on behalf of the government and people of Ghana to the royal family, chiefs and people of Dagbon.
“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 said Ya-Na Abukari II ascended the Dagbon skin during one of the kingdom’s most difficult periods but transformed it into “an enduring symbol of reconciliation, unity and hope.”
“His reign demonstrated that true leadership is measured not by power, but by the ability to heal divisions, unite people behind a common purpose,” he said.
The President praised the late overlord’s role in consolidating peace among the royal gates of Dagbon, describing his commitment to unity as one of his greatest legacies.
Recalling one of the late Ya-Na’s guiding principles, Mahama said:
“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 during his entire reign and an enduring lesson for all of us,” he added.
President Mahama also commended Ya-Na Abukari II for championing institutional reforms, including the preparation and adoption of the Dagbon Constitution, which he said provided a framework for governance, succession and stability within the kingdom.
Beyond Dagbon, the President said the late king contributed to national cohesion through mediation, dialogue and efforts to strengthen relations among traditional authorities.
He cited the Ya-Na’s historic visit to the Yagbonwura, which contributed to the establishment of a joint Dagbon-Gonja committee to address boundary disputes between the two traditional areas.
President Mahama said he personally benefited from the late Ya-Na’s counsel on national issues, describing his advice as “thoughtful, balanced and guided by the welfare of his people and the unity of our country.”
He assured the Dagbon Traditional Council of government’s support during the mourning period.
“I am positive that he has laid the foundation for a smooth succession in Dagbon,” Mahama said.
“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.”
The President prayed for Allah to grant Ya-Na Abukari II eternal rest and expressed hope that his legacy of peace, reconciliation, wisdom and service would continue to inspire future generations.
