The Convention People’s Party (CPP) has cautioned the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) against interfering in Dagbon traditional affairs, particularly issues relating to succession, during and after the funeral of Ya-Na Abukari II.

A statement issued and signed by Mr Osei Kofi Acquah, National Communications Director of the CPP, and copied to the Ghana News Agency, said the party was deeply saddened by the passing of the Overlord of Dagbon.

The statement noted that the CPP’s relationship with the people of Dagbon dated back to the 1950s when the Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah-led government, through the Opoku-Afari Commission, helped resolve a succession dispute and restore peace to the area.

According to the party, Ya-Na Abukari II was highly revered and would be remembered for promoting peace and unity between the Abudu and Andani royal gates.

“Knowing the long-standing rivalry that arises anytime a great ‘Lion passes’ on, the CPP is calling on all national security agencies to remain vigilant and alert to ensure that they maintain peace in Dagbon,” it said.

“The NPP and the NDC are also hereby advised not to meddle in the affairs of Dagbon, particularly when it comes to the issue of succession,” the statement added.

It said the traditions of Dagbon were ancient and well established, especially on succession, and urged politicians to allow due process to ensure fairness, justice and peace.

The CPP said, in honour of the late Overlord, it had directed that all party flags be flown at half-mast nationwide as it joined the people of Dagbon in mourning.

The party also prayed for the eternal repose of Ya-Na Abukari II and expressed confidence that God and the ancestors knew best.