The most senior elder of the Gbewaa Palace, Mba Dugu, has announced that the newly appointed Regent of Dagbon, Kampakuya Naa Yakubu Abubakari, will not assume the full responsibilities of the office during the ongoing mourning period for the late Yaa-Naa.
The Regent, who is the eldest son of the late Yaa-Naa Abubakari II, was traditionally appointed and enskinned by the Zohi Naa, in consultation with the Kuga Naa, on Monday, July 13, 2026, ahead of the burial of the late Overlord of Dagbon in accordance with Dagbon custom.
Addressing mourners and palace elders at the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi, Mba Dugu explained that all public, family, and traditional affairs—including ceremonies, meetings, and other key engagements—will remain under the supervision of the Gbewaa Palace elders throughout the mourning period.
According to him, the Regent has been exempted from performing the full functions of the office until the customary mourning rites and other traditional processes have been completed.
Mba Dugu emphasised that the palace elders will continue to manage the affairs of the Dagbon Kingdom during the interim period to ensure that tradition and custom are duly observed.
He, however, clarified that the Regent is permitted to receive mourners, sympathisers and other visitors at his residence as part of the ongoing funeral rites.
The announcement forms part of the traditional arrangements following the passing and burial of the late Yaa-Naa Abubakari II, as Dagbon observes its customary period of mourning.