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Published by Inusah Dondaliya

Date: 31st May 2026

The Member of Parliament for Tolon, Hon. Alhaj Habib Iddrisu, has commissioned a maternity ward in Chirifoyili and two- 20 -seater toilet facilities in the Tolon township.

This advances his efforts and commitment not only to improving access to healthcare delivery but also to ensuring that sanitation practices in the Constituency are significantly enhanced.

In the company of constituency executives and Party functionaries, the Deputy Minority Chief Whip, commissioned the facilities for use, aimed at relieving the burden of the people in health and sanitation areas.

The projects form part of a broader commitment by the Tolon MP to meeting the social basic needs of the people, so as to enhance their livelihoods and socio-economic wellbeing.

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Published May 31 2026

Published at: 12:26Pm

Story by Saibu Terry

A Dagbon cultural advocate, Hardi Pagazaa, has sought to clarify misconceptions surrounding the ceremonial Eid celebrations performed by the Overlord of Dagbon, Ndan Yaa-Naa, emphasizing that the event is historically known as Naa Jingli and not “Buga Chugu” as widely portrayed on social media.

According to Pagazaa, several videos circulating online have been captioned as “Buga Chugu,” which some have interpreted as a “small gods festival.” He insists that no such festival exists in Dagbon and describes the characterization as historically inaccurate.

He explained that Naa Jingli is a centuries-old ceremonial tradition dating back to the reign of Naa Zanjina, the 17th Yaa-Naa of Dagbon, who is credited with introducing and publicly embracing Islam in the kingdom around the 15th century.

The ceremony commemorates the historic moment when Naa Zanjina accepted Islam and publicly performed prayers for the first time. Since then, Islam has remained deeply woven into the fabric of Dagbon’s traditional governance and culture.

Pagazaa noted that it is obligatory for the Yaa-Naa and paramount chiefs across Dagbon to observe at least the Eid prayers. This enduring relationship between traditional authority and Islam is reflected in the construction of mosques near palaces throughout Dagbon and the enskinment of Imams within the traditional leadership structure.

He further explained that the ceremonial Eid-ul-Adha observance traditionally takes place in the evening. Historically, the Yaa-Naa appeared at the prayer grounds dressed in full war regalia. According to him, this practice was permitted by Islamic scholars and Imams of the time as a security measure against potential attacks from rival groups, which were common during that era.

Over time, however, as Islam became more firmly established in Dagbon, the Yaa-Naa reportedly abandoned the use of war attire during prayers and directed other traditional leaders to do the same.

Pagazaa also highlighted the unique and revered position of the Imam in Dagbon society. He stated that, apart from the President of Ghana, the Imam is the only individual accorded the privilege of shaking hands with the Yaa-Naa, underscoring the spiritual significance of the office.

He said the continued observance of Naa Jingli serves as a powerful lesson in peaceful coexistence, demonstrating how respect for culture, patience, and sustained engagement can foster religious acceptance and social harmony.

The clarification comes amid growing public interest in Dagbon’s cultural and religious traditions, particularly following the circulation of videos from recent Eid celebrations involving the Yaa-Naa.

“Long reign Ndan Yaa-Naa. Long live Dagbon. Long live Ghana,” Pagazaa concluded.

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Published: May 30 2026

Published at: 8: 27Pm

Story by Saibu Terry

The Ambariya Muslim community has received a major boost in its educational development efforts following the operationalization of the Ambariya Islamic Education Unit.

The development was marked on Thursday afternoon when Dr. Yussif Sulemana, acting on behalf of the Minister for Education and Member of Parliament for Tamale South, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, presented administrative appointment letters and other essential documents to Sheikh Saeed Abubakari, Leader of the Ambariya Muslim Sect.

The presentation fulfills a commitment made by Hon. Haruna Iddrisu to the Ambariya Muslim community during Eid prayers held on Wednesday, demonstrating the Minister’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities and strengthening educational administration within the community.

Speaking during the presentation, stakeholders described the establishment of the Education Unit as a significant milestone that will enhance access to quality education, improve educational management and create greater opportunities for young people within the Ambariya community.

The operationalization of the unit is expected to provide a structured framework for educational administration, helping schools within the community to improve coordination, supervision and academic performance.
Beyond its administrative functions, the initiative is seen as a recognition of the Ambariya community’s longstanding contribution to education and social development.

It also reflects broader efforts to promote inclusion, empowerment and equitable access to educational resources.
Community leaders expressed appreciation to Hon. Haruna Iddrisu and the Ministry of Education for honoring the pledge and supporting the advancement of Islamic education in the area.

The occasion was described as more than the presentation of official documents; it was a significant investment in the future of thousands of young people whose educational aspirations stand to benefit from the establishment of the Ambariya Islamic Education Unit.