National Tributes Pour in Following Passing of Dagbon Overlord Ya-Na Abukari Mahama II

Ghana is in a state of national mourning following the passing of Ya-Na Abukari Mahama II, the 41st Overlord of the Dagbon Kingdom, who died on July 11, 2026. Since ascending to the throne on January 18, 2019, the late Ya-Na was widely credited with steering the Dagbon Traditional Area through a historic period of reconciliation and peace. In an official statement, the Parliament of Ghana expressed deep sorrow, describing his death as a significant national loss and extending condolences to the Gbewaa Palace, the Dagbon Traditional Council, and the royal family. In a show of respect and adherence to local customs, the Yendi Municipal Directorate announced the temporary closure of all schools within the municipality during the initial mourning period.

Political leaders from across the spectrum have united to celebrate the Ya-Na’s legacy of statesmanship. President John Dramani Mahama praised the late ruler for his pivotal role in restoring harmony between the Abudu and Andani royal gates after decades of conflict. Similar sentiments were echoed by Nana Akufo-Addo and Vice-President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who highlighted the Ya-Na’s wisdom and his unwavering commitment to community development and national unity. Minister of Education Haruna Iddrisu further emphasized the Overlord's role as a unifier, urging the youth and the people of Dagbon to honor his memory by maintaining the peace he worked so hard to establish.

The Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, led by Minister Ahmed Ibrahim, has pledged full support to the bereaved family and the Dagbon community. The Ministry underscored the Ya-Na’s contributions to cultural preservation and socio-economic stability, noting that his leadership served as a model for traditional governance in the modern era. As the nation reflects on this loss, Parliament has urged all stakeholders to avoid discord during the succession process, emphasizing that the best tribute to the late King would be the continued stability of the Dagbon Kingdom.

While the nation mourns, other significant political and judicial developments continue to unfold. In the Eastern Region, the Sra Langmasi Royals have called for the recusal of Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie from the ongoing Yilo Krobo chieftaincy dispute to ensure public confidence in the judicial process. Meanwhile, in Wenchi, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia recently eulogized the late Dr. Kofi Abrefia Busia on his 113th birthday, celebrating the former Prime Minister’s legacy of intellectual leadership and service to the youth. Together, these events highlight a complex landscape of traditional transitions and the ongoing effort to preserve Ghana's political and judicial integrity.