Former Vice President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential candidate, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the Overlord of Dagbon, Ndan Ya-Na Abukari Mahama II, describing his death as a major loss to Dagbon and Ghana.

In a condolence message issued on Monday, 13 July 2026, Dr Bawumia extended his sympathies to the Chiefs and people of the Dagbon Kingdom, saying the late Ya-Na played a significant role in restoring peace, unity and development during a critical period in Dagbon’s history.

“To Allah we belong completely and to Him shall we return ultimately,” Dr Bawumia stated, as he mourned the passing of the traditional leader.

He said Ya-Na Abukari Mahama II ascended the throne at a challenging time but used wisdom, patience and traditional leadership to guide Dagbon towards reconciliation and progress.

According to Dr Bawumia, the late King’s reign, though relatively short, left a lasting impact through efforts to unite divided families, heal longstanding tensions and promote development across Dagbon.

“His reign was short but greatly impactful. Through his wise leadership, he united families once broken and healed a society greatly fractured before him,” Dr Bawumia said.

Dr Bawumia also reflected on his personal relationship with the late Ya-Na, noting that he benefited from the King’s counsel during his tenure as Vice President and later as the NPP presidential candidate.

He described visits to the Gbewaa Palace as opportunities to receive guidance and draw from the wisdom of the Dagbon overlord, whose leadership, he said, represented a balance between tradition and modernity.

The former Vice President offered prayers for comfort and strength for the late Ya-Na’s family, the Chiefs and people of Dagbon, and the entire nation, describing the loss as a painful affliction.