The European Union (EU) in Ghana has expressed its condolences to the people of Dagbon following the passing of the Overlord of the Dagbon Kingdom, Ya-Na Mahama Abukari II.
In a tribute, the EU described the late traditional ruler as a leader whose wisdom, statesmanship and commitment to peace and reconciliation shaped his reign and left a lasting mark on Dagbon and Ghana’s traditional leadership landscape.
“His Majesty will be remembered for his wisdom, statesmanship and steadfast commitment to peace and reconciliation. His leadership was instrumental in fostering unity and stability in Dagbon, leaving a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations,” the EU stated.
Ya-Na Mahama Abukari II ascended the throne of Dagbon on 19 January 2019, following years of conflict within the Dagbon traditional area that had affected the stability and development of the kingdom.
His enskinment followed the implementation of the recommendations of the Committee of Eminent Chiefs, chaired by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, which was established to help resolve the longstanding Dagbon chieftaincy dispute.
The Dagbon conflict, rooted in a long-running succession dispute between the Abudu and Andani royal families, intensified following the murder of Ya-Na Yakubu Andani II and several elders at the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi in 2002. The incident deepened divisions and created years of tension in the traditional area.
After several attempts at mediation, the government and stakeholders accepted a roadmap developed by the Committee of Eminent Chiefs, leading to the performance of traditional rites and the restoration of the Dagbon traditional authority structure. Ya-Na Mahama Abukari II was subsequently enskinned as the 41st Ya-Na of Dagbon.
During his reign, Ya-Na Mahama Abukari II focused on promoting peace, reconciliation and development within Dagbon. His leadership came at a time when stakeholders were working to consolidate the gains made after decades of conflict.
One of his notable contributions to education and development was the allocation of land for the expansion of the University of Development Studies (UDS) in northern Ghana, supporting efforts to strengthen access to higher education in the region.
The late Overlord also played a role in maintaining dialogue with state institutions, development partners and traditional stakeholders as Dagbon continued its journey towards reconciliation and socio-economic progress.
The European Union extended its condolences to the Royal Family, the people of Dagbon and all Ghanaians, recognising Ya-Na Mahama Abukari II’s contribution to peacebuilding, unity and traditional leadership in Ghana.
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