BoG commiserates with Dagbon on the passing of His Royal Majesty Ndan Yaa-Naa Abukari II

The Bank of Ghana has commiserated with the people of Dagbon following the passing of His Royal Majesty Ndan Yaa-Naa Abukari II.

The Central Bank, in a statement issued by its Communications Department, described the late Overlord of Dagbon as a revered traditional ruler whose leadership, wisdom and commitment to peace made a significant contribution to Ghana’s stability and development.

According to the Bank, Yaa-Naa Abukari II distinguished himself as a custodian of culture, peace and unity, earning the admiration of many through his efforts to promote harmony within Dagbon and across the country.

“His Majesty was a revered custodian of culture, peace and unity, and his leadership and wisdom contributed immensely to the stability and development of Ghana. His wise counsel and leadership will be greatly missed,” the statement said.

On behalf of its Board of Directors, Management and Staff, the Bank extended its heartfelt condolences to the elders, the people of Dagbon and the bereaved Royal Family, acknowledging the profound loss suffered by the Kingdom.

The Bank also prayed for strength and comfort for the people of Dagbon as they mourn the passing of their revered King.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Elders, the people of Dagbon, and the bereaved Royal Family. We pray that the Almighty grant the people of the Dagbon Kingdom strength and fortitude during this difficult period,” the statement added.

The Central Bank concluded by praying for the peaceful repose of the late King’s soul.

“May his soul rest in perfect peace.”

His Royal Majesty Ndan Yaa-Naa Abukari II, the 41st Overlord of the Dagbon Kingdom, passed away on July 11, 2026, in South Africa while receiving medical treatment. He was laid to rest in Yendi on July 13, 2026, in accordance with Islamic rites and Dagbon custom.

Yaa-Naa Abukari II was enskinned on January 25, 2019, following the successful implementation of the roadmap developed by the Committee of Eminent Chiefs to resolve the long-standing Dagbon chieftaincy dispute. His ascension restored the Yendi skin after nearly 17 years of vacancy following the death of Yaa-Naa Yakubu Andani II in 2002.

During his seven-year reign, Yaa-Naa Abukari II became a symbol of reconciliation, peace and unity. He worked to consolidate the gains of the peace process, promoted harmony between the Abudu and Andani royal gates, and championed the socio-economic development of the Dagbon Kingdom. His reign is widely regarded as a period of stability that renewed confidence in one of Ghana’s oldest and most influential traditional kingdoms.