The Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has advocated a definitive succession framework to govern the rotation of the royal skins between the Abudu and Andani families, following the demise of the Overlord of Dagbon, His Royal Majesty Ya-Na Abukari Mahama II.
Addressing Parliament, Mr. Iddrisu noted that the passing of the revered monarch ought to be utilised to solidify the peace accord that restored stability across the traditional area.
“The passing of Ndanyana Abukari Mahama II should be an opportunity for the restoration of an enduring legacy of a road map of a rotation of the succeeding gateskins between Abudus and Andanis to work to perfection,” the Minister stated.
Paying tribute to the late sovereign, Hon. Iddrisu characterised him as “a very wise Naa, a very patient one, and very consultative” who governed Dagbon with profound humility and a spirit of cohesion. He observed that despite passing at age 88, the monarch was perceived as significantly younger “because of the way he related to the common man.”
The Minister commended the late leader for bridging the factional divides that stemmed from the tragic events of March 2002, highlighting that his reign epitomised reconciliation for the kingdom.
He further recognised key figures who contributed to resolving the protracted chieftaincy dispute, citing the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II-led Committee of Eminent Chiefs, alongside former Presidents John Dramani Mahama and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. Iddrisu revealed that during the monarch’s illness, former President Mahama personally arranged his medical evacuation and secured diplomatic status for his treatment overseas.
Mr. Iddrisu appealed to traditional custodians, the government, and key stakeholders to preserve the principles of broad consultation, patience, and solidarity that marked the late monarch’s tenure.
