Renaming Tamale Airport as Yakubu Tali ‘unacceptable’

Ya-Na Abukari Mahama II, the Overlord of the Dagbon Traditional Area, has expressed his opposition to President Akufo-Addo’s decision to rename the Tamale International Airport as Yakubu Tali International Airport.

In a letter addressed to the president, Ya-Na Abukari II conveyed his strong disapproval of the proposed renaming, stating that it is unacceptable to him and the majority of citizens of Dagbon.

He highlighted that the Gbewaa Palace has received numerous calls and communications urging the president to reconsider the proposal.

Moreover, Ya-Na Abukari II emphasized the opinion of many people and traditional leaders in the region, who believe that such recognition should be bestowed upon Na Gbewaa, the ancestral figure associated with Dagbon.

Below is Ya-Na Abukari II’s full letter.

I bring you fraternal royal greetings from the Gbewaa Palace, with fervent hope and prayer that you are in good health and high spirits. I would like to draw your attention to your wish to rename Tamale International Airport as Yakubu Tali International Airport.

This is an unacceptable idea to me and the majority of citizens of Dagbon. The renaming of Tamale International Airport after Tolon Naa Yakubu will be contentious and counterproductive. It will draw our traditional state and the entire Northern Region into needless controversy.

As then Yo-Na Abukari VII, I personally and voluntarily released the substantial lands covering the entire expansion areas of the airport to the government of Ghana to undertake this important infrastructural development.

Since this proposal was announced, the Gbewaa Palace has been inundated with calls and other forms of communication pleading that this proposal be shelved. It is the considered opinion of many people and traditional leaders in the region that such recognition is bestowed on Na Gbewaa.

Accept my compliments with the highest consideration.