The Overlord of Dagbon, Ya-Na Abukari II, has banned this year’s Fire Festival celebration in the Tamale Metropolis.
The festival, which was scheduled for tonight, Saturday 5th July 2025, will no longer take place.
A statement from the Gbewa Palace stated that the decision was made after consultations with security agencies and local authorities. It cited growing tensions among certain groups in the area.
The statement, signed by Palace Secretary Abdul Rahaman Mohammed, stated that the ban is intended to protect lives and maintain peace.
While acknowledging the cultural significance of the Fire Festival, the Ya-Na emphasised that the current priority is to prevent conflict and maintain harmony.
“All traditional leaders are to relay this directive to their communities and support efforts to maintain order,” the statement said.
Residents were also urged to remain calm and cooperate with security measures.
“It is the hope of Ndan Ya-Na that the Fire Festival will resume in the near future under more favourable and peaceful circumstances,” the statement added.
About the Fire Festival
The Fire Festival, also known as Bugum Chugu, is an ancient tradition of the Mole-Dagbon people. It marks the start of the Dagbon lunar year.
The festival commemorates the night a chief’s son went missing and was found using torches during a community search.
It is a time of cultural reflection and unity, but tensions in recent years have led to increased security concerns.
