Accra: A delegation from Dagbon in the Northern Region has called on the Okyenhene, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin, to officially inform him of the passing of the Overlord of Dagbon, Nda Yaa-Naa Abukari II.
According to Ghana Web, the delegation also extended an invitation to the Okyenhene to attend the final funeral rites and other activities following the burial of Nda Yaa-Naa Abukari II. The group was led by Naa Bapir Pishigu-Lana Alhassan Andani, Paramount Chief of the Pishigu Traditional Area, and included other notable chiefs and officials, such as Naa Bapir Sakpe-Naa Alabira and Mohammed Adam Gariba, Registrar of the Northern Regional House of Chiefs.
Naa Bapir Pishigu-Lana Alhassan Andani, leader of the delegation, emphasized the strong brotherly ties that existed between the late Yaa-Naa and the Okyenhene, highlighting that the bond between the two kingdoms transcends individual lifetimes and will be upheld by future generations.
The delegation informed the Okyenhene that the late Yaa-Naa passed away on July 11, 2026, and was laid to rest on July 13, 2026, in line with Muslim and Dagbon traditions. They also mentioned that a seventh-day prayer ceremony took place on July 24, 2026, at the Gbewaa Palace, and announced the installation of Kampakuya-Naa Yakubu II as Regent of Dagbon on July 31, 2026.
In response, the Okyenhene, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin, praised the late Yaa-Naa for his commitment to sustaining peace in Dagbon. He stated that the best tribute to Yaa-Naa Abukari II's memory would be to continue the peace and unity initiatives he championed throughout his life. He urged the kingmakers and the entire Dagbon State to honor Yaa-Naa's legacy by maintaining peace, unity, and development in the region.
The Okyenhene noted that Yaa-Naa Abukari II was instrumental in resolving the long-standing Dagbon chieftaincy crisis, marking a significant chapter in the history of Northern Ghana. He described the late Yaa-Naa as a symbol of peace, unity, and statesmanship whose leadership fostered dialogue, reconciliation, and mutual respect.
Osagyefuo recalled with gratitude Yaa-Naa Abukari II's role as Special Guest of Honour during the 20th anniversary of his ascension to the Ofori Panin Stool. He expressed that Yaa-Naa's passing is a considerable loss not only to Dagbon but to Ghana as a whole, and that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.