Ghana Mourns Overlord of Dagbon Ya-Na Abukari II as Tributes Pour in for Peace-Building Monarch

The Dagbon Kingdom and the nation of Ghana are in mourning following the passing of Ya-Na Abukari II (also known as Mahama Abukari II), the 41st Overlord of Dagbon. The monarch passed away at the age of 87, marking the end of a transformative reign that began in 2019. Following traditional rites at the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi, Kampakuya Naa Yakubu Abukari has been enskinned as regent to steer the kingdom’s affairs during this transitional period. The late Ya-Na, who also served as the President of the Northern Regional House of Chiefs, is being celebrated for his instrumental role in restoring stability and unity to one of Ghana's most prominent traditional states.

Tributes have flooded in from across the country, highlighting the Ya-Na’s reputation as a symbol of peace and wise leadership. The Northern Region Muslims Council, led by Chairman Sheikh Issah Abubakari Alhassan, expressed profound sorrow, noting the Overlord’s commitment to religious harmony and his influential role in mediating regional conflicts. Similarly, Hajia Zuwera Mohammed Ibrahimah, Member of Parliament for Salaga South, described him as a father figure whose wisdom unified the Dagbon people. The Zabarma community, represented by Sarki Alhaji Musa Yahya Yendu, also lauded the monarch for his dedication to preserving customs while promoting modern dialogue and development across various ethnic groups.

Beyond traditional and religious circles, corporate and national entities have recognized the late Ya-Na’s significant contributions to Ghana’s socio-economic landscape. GNPC Explorco, the exploration arm of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation, issued a statement acknowledging the Overlord as a vital stakeholder in national progress. Since his enskinment, Ya-Na Abukari II was widely credited with successfully resolving the long-standing Dagbon chieftaincy dispute, a feat that paved the way for renewed investment in the region, the redevelopment of the Gbewaa Palace, and the modernization of traditional governance structures.

As the Dagbon Kingdom prepares for the third-day Adua (funeral prayers) on July 16, 2026, the community has been urged by traditional and religious leaders to maintain the peace and unity that the late monarch championed. This period of national reflection coincides with other significant commemorations, including the J.E.A. Mills Memorial Heritage’s activities marking the 14th anniversary of the passing of former President John Evans Atta Mills. For the people of Dagbon, the focus remains on honoring the legacy of a leader who successfully transitioned the kingdom from a period of historical tension into an era of lasting reconciliation and hope.