Osei Kofi Acquah, CPP’s National Communications Director
The Convention People’s Party (CPP) has called on the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to refrain from interfering in the traditions and succession processes of Dagbon following the death of the Overlord of Dagbon, Ya-Na Abukari II.
In a statement signed by the CPP’s National Communications Director, Osei Kofi Acquah, the party expressed profound sorrow over the passing of the revered traditional ruler, describing him as a unifying figure whose leadership helped foster lasting peace between the Abudu and Andani royal gates.
“The Convention Peoples Party is deeply sorrowed after learning of the passing of the Overlord of Dagbon, Ya-Na Abukari II,” the statement said. “Ya-Na Abukari II is not only revered and respected by the Convention Peoples Party but is also seen as the great ‘Skin’ who brought peace to Dagbon by uniting the Abudus and the Andanis.”
The CPP recalled its historic relationship with the Dagbon Kingdom, noting that its involvement dates back to the 1950s under Ghana’s first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. The party said the Nkrumah-led government played a pivotal role in restoring peace in Dagbon after the Opoku-Afari Commission was established to resolve a succession dispute that followed the failure of the automatic rotational system in 1948.
Acknowledging the sensitivity that often surrounds the death of a Dagbon overlord, the CPP urged the country’s security agencies to remain vigilant throughout the funeral period and the subsequent succession process.
“Knowing the longstanding rivalry that arises anytime a great lion passes on, the CPP is calling on all the national security agencies to remain vigilant and alert to ensure that they maintain peace in Dagbon,” the statement stressed.
The party also issued a strong caution to the country’s two major political parties, urging them not to influence or interfere in Dagbon’s traditional affairs.
“The NPP and the NDC are hereby advised not to meddle in the affairs of Dagbon, particularly when it comes to the issue of succession,” the CPP stated. “The traditions of Dagbon are very ancient and well established, especially regarding succession, and we as politicians must allow due process to ensure fairness, justice and peace.”
As part of its mourning, the CPP announced that all party flags across the country would be flown at half-mast in honour of the late Ya-Na.
“We pray for the eternal rest of our fallen ‘Skin’ and take solace in the wisdom that only God and our ancestors know best,” the statement concluded.
The CPP extended its condolences to the people of Dagbon and expressed hope that the funeral rites and succession process would be conducted peacefully in accordance with the kingdom’s long-standing customs and traditions.
Source: Ghana/otecmfghana.com
