Dagbon Overlord Urges President Akufo-Addo to Reconsider Renaming Decision.
Ya-Na Abukari Mahama II, the Overlord of the Dagbon Traditional Area, has urged President Akufo-Addo to reconsider his decision to rename the Tamale International Airport as Yakubu Tali International Airport.
In a letter to the president, Ya-Na Abukari II expressed that renaming the airport after Tolon Naa Yakubu Tali would be unacceptable to him and the majority of citizens of Dagbon. He noted that such a move would be contentious and counterproductive, potentially leading to needless controversy.
The Dagbon overlord highlighted his personal contribution to the airport’s development, stating that as then Yo-Na Abukari VII, he voluntarily released substantial lands for the airport’s expansion.
Since the renaming proposal was announced, the Gbewaa Palace has reportedly received numerous pleas to shelve the idea. Many people and traditional leaders in the region believe that such recognition should be bestowed on Na Gbewaa, the ancestral home of the Dagbon kingdom.
Ya-Na Abukari Mahama II concluded the letter by urging President Akufo-Addo to accept the highest consideration of his compliments.
The president had announced plans to rename both the Kumasi International Airport and the Tamale International Airport during his State of the Nation Address.