Ghana has lost a distinguished traditional ruler - Ghana's Ambassador to Saudi Arabia mourns Yaa-Naa

Ambassador of the Republic of Ghana to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, H.E. Alhaji Said Sinare, has said in relation to the death of Yaa-Naa Abukari Maham II that Ghana has lost one of her most distinguished traditional rulers.

Yet, he said, while death has taken the man, it cannot erase the remarkable legacy he leaves behind.

H.E. Alhaji Said Sinare said his contributions to national peace, reconciliation, and the advancement of traditional governance will continue to inspire generations and remain permanently etched in the annals of our nation's history.

The Gbewa palace in Yendi announced the passing of Ya-Na Abukari II on Monday, July 13.

His son has been appointed Kampakuya Na, to serve as Regent of the Dagbon Kingdom, serving as the traditional caretaker and overseeing the kingdom’s affairs on behalf of the Dagbon throne in accordance with Dagbon custom.

Ya-Na Abukari II was born around 1940's into a Dagbon royal family at Mion to Mahama II, the Yaa Naa from 1938 to 6 February 1948.

In a statement reacting to this news, H.E. Alhaji Said Sinare said " His reign will forever be remembered as one that rekindled unity, strengthened the bonds of brotherhood, and elevated the dignity of the ancient Kingdom of Dagbon.

"I had the singular privilege of knowing His Majesty personally. His doors were always open, his counsel was always enriching, and his fatherly wisdom left an indelible mark on all who encountered him. Every engagement with him was a lesson in humility, leadership, and the immense responsibility that accompanies service to one's people. His words were measured, his convictions unwavering, and his commitment to peace was exemplary."

Below is his full statement...

STATEMENT OF CONDOLENCE ON THE PASSING OF HIS MAJESTY NDAN YA-NA ABUKARI MAHAMA II

It is with a heart weighed down by profound grief that I have received the devastating news of the passing of His Majesty Ndan Ya-Na Abukari Mahama II, the revered Overlord of the Dagbon Kingdom.

This painful transition is not merely the loss of a monarch; it is the departure of an extraordinary statesman, a distinguished custodian of our cherished traditions, and a bridge-builder whose wisdom, patience, and uncommon foresight restored hope where despair once lingered. His reign will forever be remembered as one that rekindled unity, strengthened the bonds of brotherhood, and elevated the dignity of the ancient Kingdom of Dagbon.

I had the singular privilege of knowing His Majesty personally. His doors were always open, his counsel was always enriching, and his fatherly wisdom left an indelible mark on all who encountered him. Every engagement with him was a lesson in humility, leadership, and the immense responsibility that accompanies service to one's people. His words were measured, his convictions unwavering, and his commitment to peace was exemplary.

Indeed, Ghana has lost one of her most distinguished traditional rulers. Yet, while death has taken the man, it cannot erase the remarkable legacy he leaves behind. His contributions to national peace, reconciliation, and the advancement of traditional governance will continue to inspire generations and remain permanently etched in the annals of our nation's history.

To the Royal Family, the Regent, the Kingmakers, the Chiefs and people of Dagbon, and all Ghanaians mourning this monumental loss, I extend my deepest and most heartfelt condolences. May the Almighty strengthen every grieving heart and grant the Kingdom the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

May Allah (SWT), in His infinite mercy, forgive his shortcomings, accept his righteous deeds, admit him into Al-Jannatul Firdaus, and grant him eternal rest.

Inna Lillahi wa Inna Ilayhi Raji'un.

Fare thee well, Your Majesty. Though your earthly journey has come to an end, your legacy shall continue to illuminate the path of generations yet unborn.

Signed,

H.E. Alhaji Said Sinare, Ambassador of the Republic of Ghana to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia