Ghana's Dagbon Kingdom Mourns Loss of Powerful King Ya-Naa Abukari II

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Ghana's Dagbon Kingdom is mourning the loss of its powerful King Ya-Naa Mahama Abukari II, who passed away on July 16, 2026. As the King and Overlord of the Dagbon Kingdom, he was a leading figure in Ghana's peace process.

The National House of Chiefs, a council of traditional rulers in Ghana, has extended its deepest condolences to the Dagbon Traditional Council following the death of the King. In a condolence message, the House described the passing as a ‘monumental loss’ not only to the people of Dagbon but to the institution of chieftaincy and the nation as a whole.

Ya-Naa Abukari II ascended the Skin, the throne of the Dagbon Kingdom, on January 18, 2019, following a peace process that brought closure to a protracted chieftaincy dispute between Dagbon’s two royal gates. The dispute had lasted for decades and had led to several violent clashes between the two gates.

Under his leadership, the King was instrumental in promoting peace and unity in the Dagbon Kingdom. He was also a strong advocate for the preservation of Dagbon's rich cultural heritage.

The National House of Chiefs has called on the Head of the Kingmakers, in his role of guiding the Kingdom through the period of transition, to draw on wisdom, strength, and fortitude in discharging that sacred duty in accordance with the customs and traditions of Dagbon.

Ghana's National House of Chiefs has extended its deepest condolences to the Dagbon Traditional Council, the Northern Regional House of Chiefs, the Royal Family, and the entire people of the Dagbon Kingdom during their period of grief. The House has pledged its solidarity with the Dagbon Kingdom at this difficult time, praying for eternal rest for the soul of the late Ya-Naa and for peace, unity, and strength for the Kingdom as it prepares for the next chapter in its history.

The passing of King Ya-Naa Abukari II comes at a time when the Dagbon Kingdom was making significant strides in promoting peace and unity. His leadership will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to peace, reconciliation, and unity.

The King's reign will also be remembered for his role in preserving the rich cultural heritage of Dagbon. Through his exemplary leadership, the late Ya-Naa Abukari II strengthened bonds of unity within the Kingdom and contributed significantly to the advancement of traditional governance and national development.

Ghana's Dagbon Kingdom is one of the most revered traditional areas in the country, with a rich cultural heritage and a long history of chieftaincy.

‘The passing of Ya-Naa Abukari II is a monumental loss not only to the people of Dagbon but to the institution of chieftaincy and the nation as a whole.’

— National House of Chiefs, in a condolence message to the Dagbon Traditional Council.

As the Kingdom mourns the loss of its leader, Ghana's government has promised to support the Kingdom in its transition period.

Ya-Naa Abukari II was 72 years old at the time of his death. He was succeeded by his brother, Yɛlɣ-Naa Mahamudu Abdulai IV.

Ghana's President, Nana Akufo-Addo, has also extended his condolences to the Dagbon Traditional Council, the Royal Family, and the entire people of the Dagbon Kingdom.

Ya-Naa Abukari II's passing comes at a time when the Dagbon Kingdom is celebrating its rich cultural heritage. The Kingdom has been hosting several cultural events to showcase its rich cultural heritage.