The King of Dagbon, Ndan Ya Na Abukari II, has praised President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, describing him as a true statesman who will be remembered for his commitment to peace and security in Ghana. During a heartfelt address, the King commended the president for his role in promoting reconciliation and lasting peace in the Dagbon Kingdom, emphasizing that his legacy would inspire generations to come.
“May your legacy continue to inspire generations to come. You will always be cherished and remembered as a true statesman and champion of peace and security,” Ya Na Abukari II remarked. He acknowledged Akufo-Addo’s contribution to restoring harmony in Dagbon, where tensions between the Abudu and Andani families had created a long-standing conflict.
In a warm tribute to the president, the King expressed mixed emotions about Akufo-Addo’s farewell tour of the regions as his tenure as president draws to a close. “I don’t know whether to be happy for you for the successful completion of your mandate or to be sad for the fact that I am going to miss a great friend,” he said.
Reflecting on the president’s decisive role in the Dagbon peace process, Ya Na Abukari II credited Akufo-Addo with helping resolve the protracted dispute between the Abudu and Andani royal families. The conflict had plagued the Dagbon Kingdom for decades, particularly after the tragic death of Ya Na Yakubu II. Akufo-Addo, working alongside a committee of eminent chiefs, including His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Nayiri, and the Yagbonwura, played a key role in resolving the conflict and facilitating the peaceful burial rites of the two deceased Yaa Naas.
“Your decisive leadership in ending the protracted mediation process between the Abudu and Andani families by the esteemed committee of eminent Kings was a masterstroke that paved the way for the performance of the funerals of our two deceased Yaa Naas,” Ya Na Abukari II said. He added that President Akufo-Addo’s efforts did not end there, as his continuous support ensured the smooth installation of a new Ya Na and the maintenance of peace in Dagbon.
Dagbon, once known for its internal strife, is now experiencing unprecedented peace, thanks to the leadership of President Akufo-Addo. The King of Dagbon emphasized that the people of Dagbon are forever grateful for the president’s tireless efforts in ensuring stability and unity in the kingdom.
“We cannot thank you enough and pray that the good Lord would bless you appropriately,” Ya Na Abukari II said. As President Akufo-Addo embarks on his farewell tour, the Dagbon Kingdom celebrates his achievements and expresses deep gratitude for his contributions to the northern region.
During his visit to the Gbewa Palace in Yendi, President Akufo-Addo addressed the people of Dagbon, expressing his appreciation for the warm welcome he received from the King and the people of the area. He commended Ya Na Abukari II for his role in sustaining peace in Dagbon and congratulated the people for their collective efforts in fostering harmony in the kingdom.
Akufo-Addo also reflected on his time in office, expressing his pride in being the third president to serve two consecutive terms, following in the footsteps of former Presidents John Agyekum Kufuor and Jerry John Rawlings.
“Former President Kufuor occupied the seat twice, President Rawlings also occupied it twice, and I have also occupied it twice,” Akufo-Addo said, expressing his satisfaction with the completion of his tenure.
As he prepares to leave office, President Akufo-Addo appealed to the Ya Na, the elders, and opinion leaders of Dagbon to support the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential candidate, Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, in the upcoming elections. Akufo-Addo praised Bawumia, describing him as a competent, knowledgeable, and honest man who is well-prepared to lead the country.
“Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is a competent man, knowledgeable, and above all, he is an honest man. I believe he is the right man who can continue with the works that I have started, and he is well-prepared to be president,” the president stated.
Akufo-Addo’s visit to Dagbon marked a moment of reflection on his achievements and the partnerships he has built throughout his presidency. His efforts in bringing peace to Dagbon, one of the most challenging conflicts in Ghana’s history, remain a significant highlight of his legacy. As his term comes to an end, the people of Dagbon, led by Ya Na Abukari II, have expressed their gratitude for his contributions and the positive impact he has had on the region.
