The Dagbon Kingdom on Friday witnessed another defining moment in its centuries-old history as Kampakuya Naa Yakubu was formally enskinned as Regent following the passing of the Overlord of Dagbon, Ndan Ya-Na Abukari II.

The traditional ceremony, steeped in the customs and heritage of the Dagomba people, took place at the historic Gbewaa Palace in Yendi in an atmosphere of grief, reverence and hope.

In attendance was President John Dramani Mahama, who in his tribute described the late Overlord as a distinguished traditional ruler whose leadership strengthened peace, unity and development in Dagbon.

Former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia also conveyed his condolences to the people of Dagbon.

Also in attendance were chiefs, queen mothers, elders, royal family members, religious leaders and thousands of mourners gathered to witness the installation.

The enskinment of the Kampakuya Naa as Regent is one of the most significant stages in the transition of leadership in the Dagbon Kingdom. It ensures continuity of authority and the preservation of the kingdom’s customs until a substantive Ya-Na is selected by the kingmakers in accordance with Dagbon tradition.

Friday’s ceremony reflected the resilience of one of Ghana’s oldest traditional kingdoms, where centuries-old customs continue to guide leadership transitions with dignity and order.

The late Ya-Na, Ndan Abukari II, who ascended the skin in 2019, is widely remembered for consolidating peace, unity and reconciliation in Dagbon following years of chieftaincy disputes.

Throughout Yendi, the mood remained solemn as residents lined the streets while traditional drumming, chanting and customary rites echoed through the ancient capital. Men, women and children, mostly dressed in black, paid their respects to a monarch whose reign restored confidence in the kingdom’s future.

The installation of Kampakuya Naa Yakubu as Regent now places upon him the sacred responsibility of overseeing the affairs of Dagbon during the mourning period while ensuring that the customs and traditions of the kingdom are faithfully upheld ahead of the enskinment.

After a successful enskinment, attention now turns to the traditional processes that will eventually culminate in the selection and enskinment of a new Overlord. Until then, the Regent will serve as the custodian of the Dagbon Kingdom, ensuring that the customs, authority and dignity of one of Africa’s oldest traditional kingdoms remain intact.

From Geoffrey Buta, Yendi