The Ho Municipal Security Council has closed down the Ho Central Mosque for two weeks while litigation over the Regional Imam position is being settled.
The lockdown covers the area surrounding the building; a decision the Municipal Police Commander, Alexander Yeboah, said was to prevent clashes between the two factions.
The site had been open while the years-long litigation simmered but following a failed peace attempt recently, the Security Council has decided to restrict access completely.
The Police had to rush in on Friday to seal off the place, when the supporters of Alfa Anas defied the order and made their way to the mosque to pray.
“We went there to maintain peace and to ensure the orders given by the Security Council and the Regional Police Commander were adhered to."
“The place must be under lock to prevent a possible clash.”
The disagreement over religious leadership has divided the Muslim community in the Regional capital and turned the Central Mosque into a security zone to avert clashes.
Despite the lockout, a faction decided to observe their Friday prayers in the precinct of the Mosque.
The case is currently before a Ho High Court, while both sides continue to lay claim to the position.
The demise of former Regional Chief Imam, Alhaji Umoro Danjimah Hamzah, marked the start of tensions, as a section of the community held that Alhaji Alfa Hamid who deputized for the deceased should be allowed to assume the substantive position until a new regional Imam, Alhaji Muniru Ali was installed, giving the way for the sharp division and factionalism in Ho Zongo.
The Agbogbomefia of Asogli State, Togbe Afede, is meeting the factions on Sunday to chart a way forward for peace to prevail.
Latest Stories
-
Osarfo Anthony urges African filmmakers to contribute to global horror filmmaking industry
16 mins -
I don’t reckon Nana Ama Mcbrown as a presenter – Sally Mann
24 mins -
Today’s front pages: Friday, November 8, 2024
51 mins -
British High Commissioner commends Ghana’s push for gender equality
2 hours -
Bawumia is Ghana’s best hope for progress – NAPO insists
2 hours -
Ayariga accuses Afenyo-Markin of focusing on Majority Leader title over government business
2 hours -
Bawumia asserts: Digitalisation has addressed Ghana’s economic challenges
2 hours -
EOCO boss speaks on strengthening public sector fraud detection
3 hours -
Fitch Solutions reiterates stronger economic recovery for Ghana in 2024
3 hours -
Nathaniel Attoh reflects on journalism journey, cites mentorship and relationships as key
3 hours -
#Election2024: Coalition kicks against alleged military deployment plan on December 7
3 hours -
‘We’re frequently told 2024 election will be less peaceful than previous elections’ – British High Commissioner
3 hours -
NDC’s Asante Akim North parliamentary candidate confronts Salt FM over alleged defamation
3 hours -
Rousing reception for Alan Kyerematen in the Northern Region
3 hours -
6 injured in machete attack amid violent attempt to destool Abetifihene
3 hours