President John Dramani Mahama has described the passing of His Royal Majesty, Yaa-Naa Abukari II, as a profound national tragedy, paying glowing tribute to the late King for his exceptional leadership, commitment to peace, and unwavering dedication to the unity of Dagbon and Ghana.
Speaking at the official announcement of the Yaa-Naa’s passing at the Presidency, President Mahama expressed deep personal grief, revealing that his relationship with the late monarch extended well beyond their official roles.
“Today is a profoundly sad day for all of us as we come to terms with the passing of His Royal Majesty, Yaa-Naa Abukari II. Our father has indeed departed, and the nation mourns with deep sorrow,” the President said.
President Mahama recounted that he had known the Yaa-Naa long before he ascended the skin of Dagbon and said their relationship became even stronger during his first administration when they worked closely with the Otumfuo-led mediation team to resolve the Dagbon conflict.
“Our relationship grew into one that resembled that of a father and son. Even after I left office, our bond remained strong, and it continued after I was given another opportunity to serve as President.”
On behalf of the Government and people of Ghana, President Mahama extended heartfelt condolences to the Dagbon Traditional Council, the Royal Family, the chiefs and people of Dagbon, and all Ghanaians mourning the loss.
He described the late Yaa-Naa as one of Ghana’s most respected traditional rulers, whose wisdom, moderation and commitment to peace earned him admiration across political, ethnic and religious divides.
President Mahama praised the King’s transformative leadership, noting that he assumed the throne during one of the most challenging periods in Dagbon’s history but successfully guided the kingdom from conflict to lasting reconciliation.
“Through patience, humility and unwavering determination, he transformed a kingdom once divided by conflict into a symbol of reconciliation, unity and hope.”
He emphasized that the late monarch demonstrated that genuine leadership is measured not by power but by the ability to heal divisions and unite people.
The President also highlighted one of the defining principles of the Yaa-Naa’s reign.
“His guiding philosophy was simple but profound: he loved those who built bridges of peace and rejected those who destroyed it.”
President Mahama commended the late King’s efforts in consolidating peace among the royal gates of Dagbon, describing his courage in making difficult decisions for the greater good of the kingdom as one of his greatest legacies.
He further lauded the Yaa-Naa’s leadership in facilitating the unanimous adoption of the Dagbon Constitution, saying the document established a lasting framework for governance, succession and stability within the kingdom.
Beyond Dagbon, President Mahama said the Yaa-Naa emerged as a respected national peacemaker whose palace became a centre for dialogue and conflict resolution.
He recalled the King’s historic visit to the Yagbonwura, Overlord of the Gonja Kingdom, noting that the visit led to the establishment of the Joint Dagbon-Gonja Committee, which continues to address longstanding boundary issues between the two traditional areas.
The President also acknowledged the late King’s passion for development, saying he worked tirelessly to build partnerships with government, development agencies, diplomatic missions and the private sector to promote the socio-economic progress of Dagbon.
President Mahama disclosed that he frequently consulted the Yaa-Naa on matters of national importance.
“His advice was always thoughtful, balanced and guided by the welfare of his people and the unity of Ghana. His wise counsel will be deeply missed.”
Reflecting on the King’s final days, President Mahama said every possible effort had been made to save his life.
“We did everything humanly possible to preserve his life, but ultimately Allah, the Master of the Universe, knows best.”
He expressed confidence that the late Yaa-Naa had laid a solid foundation for a peaceful and orderly succession and assured the people of Dagbon of government’s full support throughout the mourning period.
President Mahama pledged that government would work closely with the Dagbon Traditional Council to ensure that every appropriate state honour and support would be provided ahead of the final funeral rites.
Concluding his tribute, the President prayed for Allah’s mercy upon the departed King.
“We pray that Almighty Allah grants Ya-Na Abukari II eternal rest and admits him into Jannatul Firdaus.”
He also prayed for strength and comfort for the Royal Family, the chiefs and people of Dagbon, and the entire nation.
President Mahama said the enduring legacy of Yaa-Naa Abukari II, his unwavering commitment to peace, reconciliation, wisdom and selfless service would continue to inspire generations of Ghanaians.
“May his memory forever remain a source of unity, hope and national inspiration.”
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
