The Dagbon Kingdom has been thrown into mourning following the death of His Royal Majesty Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari II, the Overlord of Dagbon.
The Royal Family of Andani announced that the King passed away last night, describing his death as a great loss to the kingdom and the people he led.
“With heavy hearts and profound sorrow, we announce the passing of His Royal Majesty, Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari II, the King of Dagbon, who departed this life last night,” the family said in a statement.
The family confirmed that the late King’s final customary rites had been performed in accordance with the sacred traditions of Dagbon, and that he had been laid to rest at Katina.
The Royal Family described Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari II as a symbol of peace, wisdom and unity, whose reign helped strengthen the bonds of the Dagbon people.
“Today, Dagbon mourns the loss of a revered father, a wise leader, and a custodian of our rich heritage. His reign, wisdom, humility, and unwavering dedication to the peace and unity of Dagbon will forever remain etched in our hearts,” the statement said.
The family prayed for Allah’s mercy and forgiveness for the late monarch, asking that he be granted eternal peace in Jannatul Firdaus.
They also extended their condolences and prayers to the Royal Family, chiefs, elders and all sons and daughters of Dagbon as they mourn the passing of their king.
“Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilayhi Raji’un. May Allah have mercy on the soul of our beloved King. Ameen,” the Royal Family of Andani concluded.
A reign that restored unity
Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari II ascended the Dagbon throne in 2019 at a significant moment in the history of the kingdom.
He was selected by the kingmakers on January 18, 2019, and was enskinned as Yaa Naa on January 25, 2019, following years of tensions over succession between the Abudu and Andani royal gates.
His ascension was widely seen as a turning point for Dagbon, bringing renewed peace and unity after decades of chieftaincy conflict that had affected the kingdom.
Before becoming the Overlord of Dagbon, the late King served in various traditional roles, including Kpunkpono Naa and later Yoo Naa, the Chief of Savelugu. These positions shaped his experience and prepared him for the responsibilities of leading one of Ghana’s most influential traditional kingdoms.
His death marks the end of a reign remembered for efforts toward reconciliation, stability and the preservation of Dagbon’s cultural heritage.
