The people of Bawku bid a final farewell to their beloved Paramount Queen Mother, Pariyaug Poanaba Alusbuudi Abugrago Azoka 1 ,who transitioned to eternity. The funeral, which took place today, was a grand display of cultural heritage and tradition.
The ceremony was marked by vibrant cultural displays from the Kusaug area, showcasing the rich traditions of the community. A highlight of the event was a beautiful custom performed by the queen mothers from Kusaug, paying tribute to the departed queen mother.
In respect of the occasion, the Overlord of Kusaug, Naba Asigiri Abugrago Azoka II, ordered the closure of shops and stores in Bawku town and surrounding areas. The directive was largely observed, with businesses shutting down for the day to allow residents to pay their last respects to the late queen mother.
The late Pariyaug Poanaba Alusbuudi Abugrago Azoka 1 was a trailblazer, becoming the first Queen Mother in the Kusaug Traditional Area. Enskinned in 2010, she went on to play a pivotal role in establishing the institution of queen mothers in the area. Her leadership and vision paved the way for the enskinning of many queen mothers in the Kusaug Traditional Area, who now continue to build on her legacy.
Throughout her tenure, Queen Mother Pariyaug Poanaba Alusbuudi Abugrago Azoka 1received numerous awards for her outstanding work and contributions to the community. She was also recognized by the National House of Queen Mothers for her dedication to promoting peace, development, and cultural heritage.
The funeral was attended by a host of dignitaries, including Hon. Law Cletus Apul Avorka, a member of the Council of State; National Vice Chairman of NDC , Chief Azoka; Hon. Lydia Akanvariba, Minister of State and MP for Tempane; Hon. Anaba, MP for Garu; Hon. Ebenezer Alumbre, MP for Zebilla; Hon. Abdul Karim Aguuri Haruna, DCE for Pusiga; Hon. Ayamwego James, DCE for Zebilla; and Hon. Azonaba Isaac, MCE for Bawku Municipal.
Also in attendance were the nominee for Binduri, Hon. Martin Ariku Akudugu, former MPs, and DCEs, as well as Heads of Departments, representatives from NGOs, revered chiefs, and queen mothers. The presence of these dignitaries underscored the respect and admiration for the late queen mother.
Despite security challenges in the Bawku area, the funeral was successfully held without major incidents. The occasion was a celebration of the life and legacy of Pariyaug Poanaba Alusbuudi Abugrago Azoka 1, who played a significant role in promoting peace, development, and cultural heritage in Bawku. Her contributions to the community will be deeply missed, but her memory will live on.
Story by Atungo Iddrisu Kassim
