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Published: July 13, 2026
Published at: 08:20am
Story by Saibu Terry
The Kingdom of Dagbon has been plunged into mourning following the official announcement of the passing of Yaa Naa Abukari II (Gariba II), one of the revered traditional rulers whose reign was marked by peace, unity, and institutional reforms.
Yaa Naa Abukari II, who was enskinned as Overlord of Dagbon in January 2019, leaves behind a legacy of transformational leadership that restored confidence in the kingdom and strengthened its traditional governance structures after years of instability.
During his reign, the Dagbon King championed peace and reconciliation, helping to consolidate the unity that followed the resolution of the protracted Dagbon chieftaincy dispute. His commitment to harmony and inclusive leadership earned him admiration across Ghana and beyond.
Among his notable achievements was his push for the amendment of the Dagbon Constitution to align the kingdom’s governance system with contemporary realities while safeguarding its cherished customs and traditions. The reforms were aimed at ensuring a smoother succession process and strengthening the administration of one of Ghana’s oldest traditional kingdoms.
Yaa Naa Abukari II also oversaw the redevelopment of the historic Gbewaa Palace in Yendi. The ultramodern palace project, which is now nearing completion, stands as one of the landmark development initiatives undertaken during his reign and is expected to serve as a lasting symbol of Dagbon’s rich cultural heritage and renewed progress.
In accordance with Dagbon custom, the King’s passing was officially announced only after the performance of the prescribed traditional rites by the royal drummers and warriors, signifying the formal declaration of the death of the Overlord.
Following the traditional processes, the late King’s eldest son has been enskinned as Kampakuya Naa Yakubu to serve as Regent of Dagbon. He will oversee the affairs of the kingdom during the mourning period until the customary processes leading to the enskinment of a new Yaa Naa are completed.
As news of the King’s passing spreads, tributes are expected to pour in from traditional authorities, government officials, religious leaders, and the people of Dagbon, all of whom are expected to celebrate the life and enduring legacy of a monarch remembered for promoting peace, unity, and development.
The passing of Yaa Naa Abukari II marks the end of a significant chapter in the history of Dagbon, while the kingdom begins the solemn traditional rites that will usher in a new era of leadership.