The Wa Naa of Wala State holds a significant position as the overlord of the Wala Kingdom, similar to other powerful traditional authorities in Northern Ghana, such as the Nayiri of Mampurusi, Ya Naa of Dagbomba and Yagbonwura of Gonja.

Below is a brief overview

• Wa Naa’s Role: The Wa Naa serves as the Overlord of the Wala Kingdom, overseeing traditional and cultural practices across a number of paramountcies in the Upper West Region that fall under his Overlordship. Naa Fuseini Seidu Pelpuo IV is the 34th (current) Wa Naa, and his palace is a symbol of the Wala people’s identity and heritage.

Comparison with Peers:
– Nayiri: The Nayiri is the Overlord/King of the Mampurugu Kingdom.
– Ya Naa: The Ya Naa is the Overlord/king of the Dagbon Kingdom.
– Yagbonwura: The Yagbonwura is the overlord/King of the Gonja Kingdom.

These prominent traditional rulers play crucial roles in maintaining cultural heritage, resolving disputes, and promoting development in their respective regions including being clothed with the authority to en-skin, reprimand and de-skin paramount chiefs where necessary.

The positions of these Overlords in the North existed long before the advent of colonial rule. Wa Naa Seidu Takora of the Naajere gate, the 26th Wa Naa for example, was in reign when both the French and British first entered Wa.

The Overlords of Wa, Mampurugu and Dagbon together with the Bimbila Naa of Nanumba and Sandema Naab of Builsa have a common ancestry in the legendary Naa Gbewaa. The Wala State or kingdom began in the year 1533 as an offshoot of Mampurugu.

They also engage with government officials and other stakeholders to address issues affecting their communities.

In the context of Northern Ghana, these traditional leaders work together to promote peace, stability, and development. It was in the same regard that the Colonial Administration under an observation that the Nayiri, Ya Naa, Yagbonwura, Wa Naa, Sandema Naab and Bimbila Naa of the then Northern Territories, wielded supreme authorities over their people, granted them unparalleled recognitions under the State Councils.

Source: Jimpenhi Naa Kadri Ibrahim/Secretary to Wa Naa