The Dagbon Kingdom has been thrown into a state of shock and mourning following the announcement of the passing of its Overlord, Ya-Na Abukari II.
The death of the revered traditional ruler was announced on Monday morning by the Head of the Dagbon Kingmakers, Kuga Naa Adam Abdulai II, according to Graphic Online’s Mohammed Fugu.
This followed the sounding of the traditional talking drum and the performance of the requisite customary rites at the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi, in accordance with Dagbon custom.
Graphic Online has gathered that preparations are underway at the Gbewaa Palace for the burial of the late king.
Sources close to Graphic Online said Ya-Na Abukari II, who also served as President of the Northern Regional House of Chiefs, had travelled to South Africa for medical treatment after a short illness, where he passed away.
Ya-Na Abukari II was enskinned in January 2019 following the successful implementation of the roadmap that resolved the protracted Dagbon chieftaincy dispute, bringing lasting peace to one of Ghana’s oldest traditional kingdoms.
During his reign, he became widely respected for promoting peace, reconciliation, and unity within Dagbon. He also championed efforts to review the Dagbon Constitution to reflect contemporary governance needs while preserving the kingdom’s rich customs and traditions.
The late Overlord also supervised the redevelopment of the historic Gbewaa Palace into a modern royal complex, a landmark project that is now nearing completion.
He further supported a number of development initiatives aimed at improving the socio-economic well-being of communities across the kingdom.
His reign will be remembered for restoring stability after years of conflict and laying the foundation for peace, institutional reform, and development within the kingdom.
In accordance with Dagbon custom, his eldest son has been enskinned as Kampakuya Naa Yakubu Abukari, who will serve as Regent and oversee the affairs of the kingdom until a new Ya-Na is selected and enskinned in line with Dagbon tradition.
