President Mahama urges Ghanaians to uphold Yaa-Naa’s legacy of peace and reconciliation
President John Dramani Mahama has called on Ghanaians to uphold the legacy of peace, reconciliation and unity bequeathed by the late Yaa-Naa Abukari II, saying his life and leadership should continue to inspire future generations.
Addressing the Dagbon Traditional Council at the Presidency following the official announcement of the passing of the Overlord of Dagbon, President Mahama said the late King’s commitment to healing divisions and promoting dialogue offered enduring lessons for both present and future leaders.
He said Yaa-Naa Abukari II transformed Dagbon from a kingdom once characterised by conflict into a beacon of reconciliation through patience, humility and unwavering determination.
According to the President, the late King’s philosophy was simple but profound: he embraced those who built bridges of peace and rejected those who undermined harmony.
He noted that those principles were not merely words but became the foundation of the King’s reign and an example worthy of emulation across the country.
President Mahama said the late Yaa-Naa consistently demonstrated courage by making difficult decisions that prioritised the unity and future of Dagbon, ensuring that future generations would inherit a kingdom founded on peace and stability.
He observed that the late King’s determination to institutionalise peace culminated in the preparation and unanimous adoption of the Dagbon Constitution, which established a lasting framework for governance, succession and stability within the kingdom.
The President said Yaa-Naa Abukari II’s influence extended beyond Dagbon as he became a respected advocate for peace whose palace welcomed dialogue and peaceful settlement of disputes.
He also acknowledged the King’s efforts to strengthen cooperation among Muslim leaders and deepen relations between Dagbon and neighbouring traditional kingdoms, particularly through his historic engagement with the Gonja Kingdom, which led to the establishment of the Joint Dagbon-Gonja Committee.
President Mahama further commended the late King for championing development by building partnerships with Government, development partners, diplomatic missions and the private sector to improve the welfare of the people of Dagbon.
Reflecting on his personal relationship with the late Yaa-Naa, President Mahama said he had known him long before he ascended the skin of Dagbon and that their relationship grew stronger during efforts to resolve the Dagbon crisis in collaboration with the Otumfuo mediation team.
He said the late King’s counsel on national issues was always measured, balanced and guided by the interest of his people and the unity of Ghana.
President Mahama described the passing of Yaa-Naa Abukari II as a painful loss for Dagbon and the nation, extending condolences to the Royal Family, the Dagbon Traditional Council and all Ghanaians mourning his death.
He assured the chiefs and people of Dagbon of Government’s support during the mourning period and pledged to work closely with the Traditional Council to ensure that the late King is accorded the appropriate state honours.
President Mahama prayed for Almighty Allah to grant the late Yaa-Naa eternal rest and urged Ghanaians to preserve and advance the values of peace, reconciliation, wisdom and selfless service that defined his reign.
Richard Aniagyei, ISD
