Former Vice President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) Flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Ya‑Na Abukari Mahama II while urging the newly installed Regent, Kampakuya Naa Yakubu, to safeguard Dagbon’s peace and unity.
Addressing chiefs, elders, and subjects at the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi on Friday, Dr. Bawumia spoke not only as a statesman but as a son recalling cherished memories. Delivering his remarks in Dagbani, enriched with proverbs, nostalgia, and prayers, he recounted his personal bond with the late Ya‑Na, which began in Savelugu during his tenure as Yoo‑Naa.
Reflecting on a 2016 campaign visit to Savelugu, Dr. Bawumia recalled paying homage to the Yoo‑Naa as NPP running mate. He shared a lighthearted moment from that encounter: “I said to the Yoo‑Naa: If a man has two wives and only tastes the soup of one, how will he know which of them cooks the better soup?” The remark drew laughter from chiefs, elders, and dignitaries, including former President John Mahama.
Explaining the metaphor, Dr. Bawumia noted that his message was for the people of Dagbon to also give the NPP an opportunity. As Dr Bawumia continued his tribute, the laughter faded into something deeper. He described the late Ya-Na as a father figure and a man of wisdom, patience and peace, whose leadership consolidated the peace and unity of Dagbon after a period of disturbances.
Their bond, Dr Bawumia said, was “one of warmth and deep respect” that lasted from Savelugu to the ancient throne of Yendi. The mood shifted again as Dr Bawumia turned to the man of the day—the new Regent, Kampakuya Naa Yakubu. He offered his prayers and congratulations to the Regent, urging him and the people to maintain the legacy of peace and unity left behind by the late Ya-Na.
The installation itself was a powerful display of Dagbon’s sacred customs, characterised by traditional regalia, drumming and dancing, with people travelling from far and near to witness it.
Source: GraphicOnline
