The Zug-Raan, Bawku Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, has expressed sorrow over the passing of Yaa-Naa Mahama Abukari II, the Overlord of Dagbon.
In a statement signed by his secretary, David Adoliba, the Bawku Naba said the people of Kusaug remembered the late Yaa-Naa for his leadership and his commitment to good neighbourliness.
The statement said this commitment was important to maintaining peace among communities. It conveyed condolences, on behalf of the Zug-Raan, chiefs, elders, queen mothers, youth and people of Kusaug, to the Dagbon royal family and the people of Dagbon.
It added that Kusaug stood in solidarity with Dagbon during the mourning period and prayed for comfort for the bereaved family and a successful transition. The statement also prayed for the late Yaa-Naa to be granted eternal rest and for his legacy to inspire future generations.
Dagbon transition
The Gbewa Palace in Yendi announced the death of Ndan Ya-Na Abukari Mahama II on 13 July. The report said his son had been appointed Kampakuya Na and would serve as regent, acting as the traditional caretaker of the kingdom while overseeing its affairs in line with Dagbon custom.
Yaa-Naa Mahama Abukari II was enskinned as the 41st Ya-Na on 18 January 2019. His installation followed a prolonged chieftaincy dispute that left the Yendi skin vacant for 16 years.
According to the account, he had previously served as chief of Kpunkpono before becoming the Savelugu chief, one of the traditional gate skins from which a Ya-Na may be selected. Dagbon custom recognises the Karaga-na, Yoo-na and Mion-lana as the three gate chiefs eligible for selection to the Yendi skin.
The 2019 enskinment was a significant moment in efforts to restore peace in Dagbon after the dispute that followed the 2002 killing of Ya-Na Yakubu Andani II. A committee of eminent chiefs, including the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, was constituted to help seek a resolution to the conflict.
