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Hardi Pagazaa Clarifies Dagban’s Eid Tradition: ‘It Is Naa Jingli, Not Bugu Chugu’
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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.
News
Hon. Habib Soyalana commissions maternity ward, toilet facilities in Tolon Constituency
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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.
News
Haruna Iddrisu Fulfills Promise as Ambariya Islamic Education Unit Becomes Operational
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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.
News
Haruna Iddrisu Unveils Major SHS Infrastructure Expansion Plan
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Published: May 30 2026
Published at: 3:45Pm
Story by Saibu Terry
The Minister for Education, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, has reiterated the government’s commitment to improving educational infrastructure across Ghana, announcing plans to upgrade several senior high schools and expand access to secondary education in underserved districts.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament, the Minister disclosed that government intends to upgrade 30 Category C Senior High Schools to Category B status, while 20 Category B schools will be elevated to Category A. According to him, the move forms part of broader efforts to improve educational standards and create equal opportunities for students across the country.
Hon. Iddrisu further revealed that approximately 13 districts in Ghana currently do not have Senior High Schools. He noted that government is determined to address the gap by ensuring that these districts receive their own SHSs to enhance access to quality education and reduce the burden on students who travel long distances to attend school.
During his presentation, a brief exchange occurred when Assin South MP, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, sought to intervene by raising his hand. In response, Hon. Iddrisu questioned what interventions the previous administration had made during its years in office to address the infrastructure challenges currently confronting the education sector.
The Education Minister maintained that the government’s ongoing reforms are aimed at strengthening the country’s educational system and providing the necessary infrastructure to support teaching and learning.
Observers say the planned upgrades and expansion of SHS facilities, if implemented successfully, could significantly improve access to secondary education and enhance the overall quality of education across Ghana.
The government’s commitment to educational development continues to feature prominently in its broader agenda to build a stronger and more inclusive education sector for future generations.