Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has paid tribute to the late Overlord of Dagbon, Yaa-Naa Mahama Abukari II, describing him as a great figure of unity whose reign restored dignity, pride and cultural renaissance to the Dagbon Kingdom.
In a statement shared on X on Monday, July 13, 2026, Akufo-Addo said he had received news of the customary announcement by the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi confirming the passing of the Dagbon overlord.
He described the late Yaa-Naa as “a great figure of unity, strength and the enduring legacy of a proud and dignified people,” adding that he joins the long line of Dagbon royals who have contributed to the kingdom’s progress for more than three centuries.
“A great figure of unity, strength and the enduring legacy of a proud and dignified people, Yaa-Naa Mahama Abukari II joins the illustrious list of Dagbon royals who have enabled the steady progress of Dagbon for over three centuries,” he stated.
The former president also reflected on the late King’s role in resolving the protracted Dagbon chieftaincy dispute, recalling that Yaa-Naa Mahama Abukari II, then the Yoo Naa of Savelugu, accepted his proposal aimed at ending the long-standing succession crisis.
According to Akufo-Addo, the cooperation of the late Yaa-Naa and the other princes paved the way for the implementation of what he described as a special solution to the unique circumstances facing the Dagbon Kingdom, culminating in the King’s enskinment during his presidency.
“He and the two younger princes at the time, with mutual respect and affection, accepted my advice towards the implementation of the special solution to the special circumstances of the Dagbon Kingdom at the time,” he said.
Akufo-Addo further recounted being conferred with the traditional title “Naa Abudani” by the Yaa-Naa during the first Damba Festival celebrated after the King’s enskinment in 2020.
“I was deeply honoured when he conferred on me the title ‘Naa Abudani’ in 2020, as recognition of my efforts towards the reconciliation process in Dagbon. It is an honour I will always treasure,” he noted.
The former president said the late monarch’s reign was characterised by a resurgence of dignity, unity, pride and cultural revival across Dagbon.
He also called on the chiefs, kingmakers and elders of Dagbon to preserve the King’s legacy by ensuring a smooth and peaceful transition in line with the customs and traditions of the kingdom.
“I urge the Chiefs, Kingmakers and elders of Dagbon to ensure that his legacy is cemented by ensuring a smooth and peaceful transition in line with the time-tested customs and traditions of Dagbon,” he stated.
Akufo-Addo further welcomed the successful enskinment of a regent and urged Ghanaians to support the people of Dagbon throughout the mourning period.
He, together with his wife, Rebecca Akufo-Addo, extended condolences to the family of the late Yaa-Naa, the chiefs, elders and people of Dagbon.
“May his soul rest in perfect peace in the Bosom of the Almighty until the Last Day of the Resurrection when we shall all meet again,” he added.