A senior traditional leader in the Dagbon Kingdom, Naa Yab Gukpe-Naa, has directed radio and television stations, historians and media commentators to immediately halt discussions, debates and panel programmes relating to the passing of the late Overlord of Dagbon, Yaa-Naa Abubakari Mahama II, as the kingdom continues to observe its mourning rites.
The directive comes as Dagbon remains in an official period of mourning following the death of the revered monarch, whose passing has drawn thousands of mourners to the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi for a series of traditional and Islamic funeral observances.
In a strongly worded message delivered on Monday, Naa Yab Gukpe-Naa said the period of mourning should be dedicated to preserving the dignity of the late King and ensuring strict adherence to the customs and traditions of the Dagbon Kingdom.
According to him, discussions, debates and panel programmes centred on the late King’s passing are inappropriate at this stage and should cease immediately.
He stressed that the focus should remain on honouring the memory of the late Yaa-Naa through respect, solemn reflection and the observance of the kingdom’s established traditions rather than public speculation or unnecessary commentary.
Naa Yab Gukpe-Naa further warned that any radio or television station that disregards the directive could face sanctions, including the possibility of being shut down.
He urged media organisations, historians, programme hosts, panellists and members of the public to exercise restraint and support efforts to maintain the sanctity of the mourning period until the funeral rites are concluded.
The caution follows a series of directives issued by the Gbewaa Palace aimed at ensuring a peaceful and dignified funeral for the late Yaa-Naa.
Earlier, palace authorities prohibited the possession and use of live ammunition during the funeral rites, while the Ghana Police Service deployed nearly 500 personnel to Yendi to maintain law and order throughout the ceremonies.
Meanwhile, the Gbewaa Palace has announced that the seventh-day Adua (Islamic prayers for the dead) for the late Yaa-Naa Abubakari Mahama II will be held on Friday, July 24, 2026.
The prayer session is expected to attract traditional rulers, Islamic clerics, political leaders, government officials and thousands of mourners from across Ghana as Dagbon continues to honour the memory of its departed King.
Yaa-Naa Abubakari Mahama II, who ascended the Skin of Dagbon in January 2019, passed away after a brief illness and was laid to rest at Katini in accordance with the customs and traditions of the Dagbon Kingdom.
His death has attracted tributes from traditional authorities, political leaders, diplomatic missions, religious organisations, corporate bodies and citizens across Ghana and beyond, many of whom have described his reign as one defined by peace, reconciliation, humility and an unwavering commitment to the unity of Dagbon.
Source: www Kumasimail.com
