Dagbon chiefs inform Dr Bawumia of Ya‑Na’s passing

Former Vice President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential flagbearer, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia on Thursday, July 23, 2026, received a high-level delegation of chiefs from the Dagbon Kingdom, who formally notified him of the death of the Overlord, Ndan Ya-Na Abukari Mahama II (also known as Gariba II).

The delegation informed Bawumia of the monarch’s passing and provided details on the scheduled installation of a regent, in line with Dagbon customs.

Ya-Na Abukari Mahama II, who ascended the throne in January 2019, died on July 12, 2026, at the age of 87 in South Africa after a short illness.

His remains were repatriated and laid to rest in Yendi according to traditional rites.

Inside story of how Mahama made efforts to save the late Yaa Naa Abukari II's life

In a post on his social media on July 23, 2026, accompanying photos from the meeting, Bawumia paid tribute to the late king.

“Ndan Ya-Na served Dagbon and Ghana with dignity and wisdom. May Allah grant him Jannah and comfort the Royal Family, Chiefs and people of Dagbon,” he wrote.

The late Ya-Na was widely known for promoting reconciliation and stability in Dagbon following years of chieftaincy disputes that had previously led to violence.

Meanwhile, condolences have poured out from across Ghana’s political spectrum, including from President John Dramani Mahama, who also received a similar delegation earlier this week.

Profile of the late Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari II

See the post below:

I received in audience a delegation of Chiefs from the Dagbon Kingdom, who formally informed me of the passing of Ndan Ya-Na Abukari Mahama II and the date for the installation of his Regent.

Ndan Ya-Na served Dagbon and Ghana with dignity and wisdom. May Allah grant him Jannah… pic.twitter.com/kUoBRK3P1W

— Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia (@MBawumia) July 23, 2026