DSN NEWS DESK
The National Chief Imam, Sheikh Dr Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, has reaffirmed the legitimacy of Shaikh Ali Muniru as the duly recognised Volta Regional Imam, following a shooting incident at the Ho Central Mosque on Friday, December 26.
In a statement issued on Monday, December 29, and signed by his Personal Assistant, Dr Abubakar Mohammed Marzuq Azindoo, the National Chief Imam clarified that the leadership matter surrounding the Volta Regional Imamship had long been resolved and should not have escalated into violence.
According to the statement, the incident stemmed from a leadership dispute that had already been settled through consultation and mediation. The National Chief Imam stressed that Shaikh Muniru remains the legitimate Regional Imam, with Shaikh Anas serving as his duly recognised deputy.
Condemnation of Violence at a Sacred Site
Expressing deep concern, the National Chief Imam described the shooting incident as deeply regrettable and inconsistent with Islamic teachings, particularly given that it occurred within a mosque.
He emphasized that Islam upholds peace, restraint, and respect for human life, adding that violence in a place of worship is wholly unacceptable regardless of the circumstances.
Call for Unity and Restraint
Referring to both clerics as his spiritual sons, the National Chief Imam urged them to demonstrate unity, mutual respect, and cooperation in the service of Allah and the wider Muslim community.
He also called on their respective supporters to remain calm, law-abiding, and committed to peace, warning that inflammatory actions and rhetoric risk deepening divisions.
Appeal to Security Agencies
The National Chief Imam further appealed to the Ghana Police Service to conduct thorough and impartial investigations into the incident, stressing that justice must be pursued fairly and without bias.
He cautioned that selective enforcement or perceived injustice could erode public confidence and further inflame tensions within the community.
Call for Reconciliation
In closing, the National Chief Imam prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured during the incident and urged all parties to embrace reconciliation, dialogue, and unity.
He referenced Islamic teachings that emphasize brotherhood and peaceful coexistence, noting that lasting peace can only be achieved through forgiveness, understanding, and collective responsibility.
