President John Dramani Mahama has paid a glowing tribute to the late Overlord of the Dagbon Kingdom, Ya-Na Abukari II, describing his passing as a monumental loss to the entire country.
Receiving a delegation from the Dagbon Traditional Council at the Presidency on Monday, July 20, 2026, after being formally notified of the monarch’s demise, the President extended his heartfelt sympathies on behalf of the government and the Ghanaian public to the royal family, chiefs, and citizens of Dagbon.
Describing the late monarch as a true statesman, President Mahama highlighted how his tenure was defined by a steadfast commitment to harmony, reconciliation, and national togetherness.
“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.”
Reflecting on the king’s legacy, President Mahama noted that Ya-Na Abukari II assumed the skin during a particularly challenging era in the kingdom’s history, yet managed to steer Dagbon toward a new era of stability.
“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.
He emphasised the late ruler’s crucial role in fostering unity between the royal gates of Dagbon, pointing to his dedication to peaceful coexistence as one of his defining achievements.
“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.
The President further praised the the late Overlord for driving significant institutional growth, particularly his leadership in drafting and adopting the Dagbon Constitution, a landmark document that laid down clear principles for governance, succession, and long-term stability.
President Mahama also acknowledged the late king’s broader efforts toward national cohesion through active mediation, inclusive dialogue, and building bridges across traditional boundaries.
He highlighted the Ya-Na’s historic visit to the Yagbonwura, which laid the groundwork for a joint Dagbon-Gonja committee tasked with resolving long-standing boundary disagreements.
Recalling his personal interactions with the traditional ruler, President Mahama shared how much he valued the monarch’s guidance on matters of national importance, remembering his counsel as thoughtful, balanced, and deeply rooted in the well-being of his people and the country at large.
Reassuring the visiting delegation of the state’s full backing throughout this period of mourning, the President expressed confidence in the enduring structure left behind by the revered ruler.
“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.”
