Omanghana
President John Dramani Mahama, former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and National Chief Imam Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu joined political, religious and traditional leaders in Yendi for the enskinment of Kampakuya-Naa Yakubu Abukari as Regent of Dagbon.
The historic ceremony was held at the Gbewaa Palace on Friday, July 31, 2026, attracting dignitaries and residents from across Ghana.
Kampakuya-Naa Yakubu Abukari, the eldest surviving son of the late Overlord of Dagbon, Ndan Yaa-Naa Abukari Mahama II, assumed the regency following his father’s death on July 11, 2026.
His installation represents an important stage in Dagbon’s customary succession process. As Regent, he will oversee preparations for the late Overlord’s final funeral rites before the process of selecting a substantive successor begins.
President Mahama congratulated the new Regent and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining peace, protecting Ghana’s cultural heritage and promoting development across Dagbon and the Northern Region.
Dr. Bawumia also led a delegation to the ceremony to pay homage to the Dagbon traditional leadership. He called for continued harmony and unity as the kingdom navigates the transition following the death of its Overlord.
Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu was joined by prominent Islamic clerics in offering prayers and reciting verses from the Quran for the peaceful repose of the late Yaa-Naa’s soul.
Other notable guests included Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu, Northern Regional Minister Ali Adolf John, members of the diplomatic community and representatives of traditional councils.
The ceremony combined centuries-old Dagbon customs with Islamic religious practices. Significant moments included the symbolic shaving of the Regent’s head, prayers, traditional gun salutes and other customary rites associated with the enskinment process.
Security was reinforced throughout Yendi to ensure an orderly ceremony. More than 600 personnel drawn from the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Armed Forces were reportedly deployed around the Gbewaa Palace and other strategic locations.
The National Peace Council subsequently commended the people of Dagbon for their maturity, resilience and commitment to ensuring a peaceful transition.
The successful enskinment was widely viewed as another demonstration of Dagbon’s determination to protect the peace and unity achieved after decades of traditional conflict.
Kampakuya-Naa Yakubu Abukari is expected to play a central role in preserving stability within the kingdom while guiding the traditional processes leading to the late Overlord’s funeral and the eventual selection of a new Yaa-Naa.
Source: Omanghana
