Bawumia mourns Ya-Na Abukari II, describes his passing as a great loss

Former Vice President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has expressed his condolences to the Chiefs and people of the Dagbon Kingdom following the death of the Overlord of Dagbon, Ya-Na Abukari II.

The revered traditional ruler's passing was announced on Monday, July 13, by the Head of the Dagbon Kingmakers, Kuga Naa Adam Abdulai II, after customary rites were performed at the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi. Preparations are underway for his burial in accordance with Dagbon traditions.

In a condolence message issued the same day, Dr. Bawumia paid tribute to the late Ya-Na, describing him as a unifying leader whose reign brought peace and stability to the kingdom during a difficult period in its history.

"Ndan Ya-Na Abukari II emerged as the King of Dagbon during one of the most challenging periods in Dagbon history, and with ancestral wisdom and patience, he guided the ancient Kingdom towards peace, unity and prosperity," he said.

Dr. Bawumia noted that although the late overlord's reign was relatively short, it was marked by impactful leadership that fostered reconciliation, strengthened unity and promoted development in Dagbon.

He also reflected on his personal relationship with the late Ya-Na, saying he benefited greatly from his wisdom during his tenure as Vice President and later as the NPP's presidential candidate.

"His passing marks a great loss to me, to the Dagbon Kingdom, and to Ghana as a whole," Dr. Bawumia stated.

He prayed for Allah's comfort for the royal family, the Chiefs and people of Dagbon, and the nation, describing the monarch's death as "a painful affliction."