‘He healed divisions and restored hope in Dagbon’ - Stonebwoy pays tribute to late Ya-Na

Afro-dancehall musician Stonebwoy has paid tribute to the late Overlord of the Dagbon Kingdom, Ya-Na Abukari II, describing him as a visionary leader whose reign restored peace, unity, and hope to the kingdom.

In a post shared on his social media page on July 14, 2026, the BHIM Nation President expressed his sorrow over the passing of the revered traditional ruler.

Stonebwoy described the late Ya-Na Abukari II as a leader of peace and vision, stating that the revered monarch played a pivotal role in restoring unity during one of Dagbon's most challenging periods.

He further stated that he would never forget the love and acceptance he received from the people of Dagbon, recalling how they welcomed him as family and honoured him with the traditional title Dancehall 'Sapashini, The Warrior'.

"I mourn the passing of Ya-Naa Abukari II, Overlord of Dagbon. His loss is felt across Dagbon and all of Ghana. He was a leader of peace and vision. At Dagbon's most fragile moment, he restored unity, healed divisions, and gave the Kingdom new hope and stability.

"I will never forget the love Dagbon showed me, welcoming me as family and honouring me with the title Dancehall Sapashini – The Warrior. For that, I am forever grateful. My condolences to the Chiefs, the royal family, and the people of Dagbon. God grant you strength during this difficult time. Rest well, Ya-Naa," Stonebwoy wrote.

The passing of Ya-Na Abukari II was officially announced on July 13, 2026, by the Head of the Dagbon Kingmakers, Kuga Naa Adam Abdulai II, after the performance of customary rites at the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi.

In keeping with Dagbon tradition, the announcement followed the sounding of the traditional talking drum and the observance of sacred customary rituals, signalling the death of the Overlord.

Throughout his reign, Ya-Na Abukari II earned respect for his commitment to peacebuilding and reconciliation within the Dagbon Kingdom. He played a pivotal role in fostering unity after years of division, strengthening traditional leadership, and promoting stability across the kingdom.

The late monarch championed the review of the Dagbon Constitution to ensure it reflected contemporary governance needs while preserving the kingdom's rich cultural heritage and customs.

He also oversaw the redevelopment of the historic Gbewaa Palace into a modern royal complex, a landmark project that symbolised both the preservation of Dagbon's history and its aspirations for the future. The project is reported to be nearing completion.

In addition, Ya-Na Abukari II supported several development initiatives aimed at improving education, infrastructure, and the socio-economic well-being of communities throughout the kingdom.

I mourn the passing of Ya-Naa Abukari II, Overlord of Dagbon. His loss is felt across Dagbon and all of Ghana.

He was a leader of peace and vision. At Dagbon's most fragile moment, he restored unity, healed divisions, and gave the Kingdom new hope and stability.

I will never… pic.twitter.com/hi1d0A1dgh

— THE TORCHER (@stonebwoy) July 14, 2026