A grand and colorful traditional ceremony has been held in Zabzugu, Northern Region, to outdoor the Chief Executive Officer of Zaa Multimedia and the Chief of Dagombas residing in North America, Alhaji Muhammad Ibn Umar, as the new regent of Yelizoli. Known also as Tunŋ Lana in the Yelizoli Traditional Area, Alhaji Muhammad Ibn Umar’s installation follows the passing of Yelizoli Lana Iddrisu Imoro II, who died on Thursday, December 19, 2024, after a brief illness.
The late Yelizoli Lana Iddrisu Imoro II, born in 1914 into the royal lineage of the late Yelizoli Lan Abdulai and also hailing from Yelizoli Lan Azima’s lineage, was a revered leader spanning decades. Yelizoli Lan Imoro’s father was Gumple-Lan Iddirus Abdulai, a son of Yelizoli-Lan Azima.
He served his people in various capacities: Peŋ-Lana (1984–1997), Nyankpal-Lana (1997–1999), Lagban-Lana (1999–2019), and ultimately as Yelizoli Lana from April 29, 2019, until his passing. Known for his dedication to peace, unity, and development, the late chief was widely regarded as a pillar of his community.
The ceremony, steeped in Dagbon tradition and culture, drew dignitaries, traditional leaders, and a large gathering of community members from across the Northern Region and beyond. The occasion was a dual celebration of the enduring legacy of the late Yelizoli Lana Iddrisu Imoro II and the promise of continuity under the stewardship of the newly installed regen.
The ceremony featured a rich array of traditional performances, including drumming, dancing, and recitations of oral history that celebrated the life and accomplishments of the late chief. Tributes poured in from far and near, with speakers highlighting his contributions to the progress and well-being of the Yelizoli Traditional Area.
The event was twofold, comprising the seven-day funeral rites and the formal installation of the regent, both of which took place on December 27, 2024, in Zabzugu. The event drew an even larger gathering of attendees, offering the people of Zabzugu an opportunity to honor their late chief and pledge their support to the newly installed regent.
As the people of Zabzugu rally around their new leader, the legacy of Yelizoli Lana Iddrisu Imoro II serves as a guiding beacon, inspiring a collective commitment to unity and development in the Yelizoli Traditional Area.
Source : Ibrahim Angaangmeni Alhassan/zaaradio.com
