President John Dramani Mahama has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of the Overlord of Dagbon, Ya-Na Abukari II, describing the late monarch as a father figure with whom he shared a longstanding and close relationship.
Paying tribute to the revered traditional ruler, President Mahama recalled working closely with Ya-Na Abukari II during his first term in office to help resolve the protracted Dagbon chieftaincy crisis, noting that their relationship grew stronger over the years.
“I’ve known him for many years, even when he was Yo Naa. We worked together to resolve the Dagbon crisis during my first presidency, and remained like father and son ever since.
We have come a very long way together,” the President said.
President Mahama said the death of the Ya-Na was a painful loss not only to Dagbon but also to the entire nation, acknowledging the late King’s significant contribution to peace, reconciliation and stability in the traditional area.
On behalf of the Government and people of Ghana, the President extended his heartfelt condolences to the Dagbon Traditional Council, the Royal Family, the chiefs and people of Dagbon, and all Ghanaians mourning the passing of the revered monarch.
“Our father has passed. It is a sad moment for all of us,” he stated, adding that the Ya-Na’s absence would be deeply felt by all who knew him.
President Mahama, however, urged Ghanaians to find comfort in the will of God, saying, “Allah, the Master of the Universe, knows best, and we take solace in His will.”
He concluded his tribute with prayers for the late Ya-Na, saying, “May the soul of Ya-Na Abukari II rest in perfect peace.”
