Akufo-Addo remembers Yaa Naa as key architect of Dagbon peace

Former President Nana Akufo-Addo has paid tribute to the late Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II, describing him as a key architect of the peace and reconciliation that transformed Dagbon.

Akufo-Addo, in a statement posted on X following the announcement of the Overlord’s passing, said the late Yaa Naa’s leadership would remain an enduring symbol of unity, dignity and progress for the Dagbon Kingdom.

He described the late monarch as “a great figure of unity, strength and the enduring legacy of a proud and dignified people,” adding that he joins “the illustrious list of Dagbon royals who have enabled the steady progress of Dagbon for over three centuries.”

The former President recalled the critical role Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II played in ending the long-running Dagbon chieftaincy dispute while serving as the Chief of Savelugu, then known as Yoo Naa.

“He was pivotal to solving what, for years unend, became known as the ‘Dagbon Crises’… which eventually culminated in his ultimate rise to the apex of Dagbon namship as Yaa Naa during my tenure as President of the Republic,” Akufo-Addo stated.

Akufo-Addo’s administration is widely credited with successfully resolving the decades-old Dagbon chieftaincy dispute. In 2019, the government facilitated the implementation of a roadmap that enabled the performance of the final funeral rites of the two late Yaa Naas, paving the way for the enskinment of Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II and restoring lasting peace to the kingdom.

The former President also reflected on receiving the traditional title “Naa Abudani” in 2020 during the first Damba Festival celebrated after the King’s enskinment.

“I was deeply honoured when he conferred on me the title ‘Naa Abudani’ in 2020, as recognition of my efforts towards the reconciliation process in Dagbon,” he said.

Akufo-Addo urged chiefs, kingmakers and elders of Dagbon to preserve the late King’s legacy by ensuring a peaceful succession in accordance with the kingdom’s customs and traditions.

“My wife Rebecca and I extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to his family, the Chiefs, elders and good people of Dagbon. May his soul rest in perfect peace in the Bosom of the Almighty until the Last Day of the Resurrection when we shall all meet again,” he added.