Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has paid tribute to the late Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari II, describing him as a unifying leader whose reign restored dignity, peace and cultural pride to the Dagbon Kingdom.
In a statement posted on his Facebook page following the official announcement of the Yaa Naa’s passing by the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi, Mr. Akufo-Addo expressed deep sorrow over the death of the Dagbon overlord and extended his condolences to the royal family and the people of Dagbon.
He described Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari II as “a great figure of unity, strength and the enduring legacy of a proud and dignified people,” adding that the late king joins the distinguished line of Dagbon rulers who have contributed to the kingdom’s steady progress for more than three centuries.
Reflecting on the resolution of the long-standing Dagbon chieftaincy dispute, the former President said the late Yaa Naa played a pivotal role in bringing an end to the crisis while serving as the Yoo Naa of Savelugu. He noted that the reconciliation process eventually led to the enskinment of Mahama Abukari II as Yaa Naa during his presidency.
According to Mr. Akufo-Addo, the late Yaa Naa and the two other royal princes accepted his proposal for resolving the conflict through what he described as “a special solution to the special circumstances” facing the Dagbon Kingdom at the time.
The former President also recalled being honoured with the traditional title “Naa Abudani” in 2020 during the first Damba Festival celebrated after the Yaa Naa’s enskinment. He said the title was conferred in recognition of his role in the Dagbon reconciliation process, describing it as an honour he would always cherish.
Mr. Akufo-Addo credited the late monarch with overseeing a period of renewed unity, dignity and cultural renaissance across Dagbon during his reign.
He appealed to the chiefs, kingmakers and elders of Dagbon to safeguard the late king’s legacy by ensuring a peaceful and orderly succession in accordance with the kingdom’s customs and traditions. He also welcomed the successful enskinment of a regent, describing it as a reassuring step toward maintaining stability.
The former President further called on Ghanaians to support the people of Dagbon during the period of mourning.
“My wife Rebecca and I extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to his family, the chiefs, elders and good people of Dagbon,” he said, praying that the late Yaa Naa’s soul would rest in peace.
Source:www.kumasimail.com
