Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has expressed his condolences following the death of the Overlord of the Dagbon Kingdom, His Majesty Yaa-Naa Mahama Abukari II.

Mr Akufo-Addo described the late Dagbon king as a symbol of unity, resilience and the rich heritage of the Dagbon people, saying his passing marks the loss of a respected traditional leader whose contributions strengthened the kingdom.

According to the former President, Yaa-Naa Mahama Abukari II played a significant role in resolving the long-standing Dagbon conflict during his time as the Yoo Naa (Chief of Savelugu), a process that later paved the way for his ascension to the Dagbon throne during Akufo-Addo’s administration.

He recalled that the late Yaa-Naa, together with two other royal figures, demonstrated cooperation and mutual respect in supporting efforts aimed at finding a lasting solution to the challenges facing Dagbon at the time.

Mr Akufo-Addo also reflected on the honour bestowed on him by the late overlord in 2020, when he was given the traditional title “Naa Abudani” in recognition of his role in supporting the Dagbon reconciliation process.

He said the reign of Yaa-Naa Mahama Abukari II brought renewed pride, cultural revival, unity and dignity to the Dagbon Kingdom.

The former President urged Dagbon chiefs, kingmakers and elders to preserve the legacy of the late king by ensuring a peaceful transition in accordance with the kingdom’s customs and traditions.

He noted that the successful enskinment of a regent was a positive development and appealed to Ghanaians to support the Dagbon people during the period of mourning and transition.

“My wife Rebecca and I extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to his family, the Chiefs, elders and good 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 said.

The Gbewa Palace in Yendi announced the passing of Yaa-Naa Mahama Abukari II on Monday, July 13, 2026.

Following his death, his son was named Kampakuya Na, becoming the Regent of Dagbon to oversee the affairs of the kingdom until a new Yaa-Naa is selected according to Dagbon traditions.

Yaa-Naa Mahama Abukari II, who was born in the 1940s into the Dagbon royal family at Mion, was the son of Mahama II, who served as Yaa-Naa from 1938 until February 6, 1948.