The Okyehene, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin II, has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of the Overlord of Dagbon, Ya-Na Abukari II, describing the late monarch as a distinguished traditional ruler whose leadership advanced peace, reconciliation and national unity.
In a statement issued following the Ya-Na’s death, the Okyehene said he received the news with “profound shock and deep sorrow,” while extending condolences to the Royal Family of Dagbon, the Gates of Dagbon, the chiefs and people of the kingdom, and all Ghanaians mourning the loss.
According to the statement, Ya-Na Abukari II played a pivotal role in fostering peace in Dagbon following years of chieftaincy conflict. The Okyehene said the late monarch demonstrated through his leadership that dialogue, reconciliation and mutual respect remain the surest path to achieving lasting peace.
Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin further described the Ya-Na as a leader whose tolerance, wisdom and compassion enabled him to use traditional authority as a force for national cohesion and development.
The statement noted that the late King worked with traditional leaders across Ghana to build consensus on issues of national importance and to strengthen harmony among the country’s diverse communities.
Recalling their longstanding relationship, the Okyehene said Okyeman would remain grateful for the friendship, counsel and engagement it enjoyed with the late Ya-Na.
He specifically remembered Ya-Na Abukari II’s acceptance of an invitation to serve as Special Guest of Honour during celebrations marking the 20th anniversary of his ascension to the Ofori Panin Stool.
During that event, the Ya-Na called for reforms to the Council of State to allow greater participation by traditional authorities in the governance of the country.
The Okyehene said the passing of the Dagbon overlord was not only a loss to the kingdom but also to the entire nation, adding that Okyeman had lost “a cherished brother, a respected father figure and a trusted friend.”
He expressed confidence that the late monarch’s legacy of peace, reconciliation and visionary leadership would continue to inspire future generations of traditional rulers and Ghanaians.
Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin also urged Ghanaians to honour the memory of Ya-Na Abukari II by preserving the peace, unity and reconciliation that characterised his reign, saying these values should continue to guide traditional authorities in promoting national development.
The statement concluded with prayers for the peaceful repose of the soul of the late Overlord of Dagbon.
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