By Jones Anlimah
The Ulema of the Ho Zongo Community in the Volta Region have strongly opposed the temporary closure of the Ho Central Mosque, describing the decision as unjust and influenced by political considerations.
In a statement, the Muslim leaders said the community has worshipped peacefully at the mosque for many years without incident, insisting that recent tensions only arose after a group allegedly led by Mr. Ali Muniru forcefully entered the mosque with armed men, during which gunshots were reportedly fired within the mosque premises.
According to the Ulema, the incident endangered lives and violated the sanctity of the mosque. They accused authorities of failing to provide adequate security for the Muslim community following the shooting and alleged that the actions of the Volta Regional Minister appear to favour one faction in the ongoing leadership dispute.
The statement questioned the steps taken by the Regional Minister since the incident, including whether the alleged perpetrators had been properly investigated and prosecuted, and why a community that, they say, has remained peaceful is being “punished” through the closure of its central place of worship.
The Ulema further raised concerns about the constitutional right to freedom of worship, asking whether protections guaranteed under the 1992 Constitution still apply to Muslims in Ho.
Declaring the closure unacceptable, the Ho Zongo Muslim community said it will continue to demand justice, security, and respect for its right to worship freely and peacefully.
The group has called on relevant state authorities, civil society organisations, and the media to take keen interest in the matter to ensure fairness, neutrality, and the rule of law.
The statement was signed by the Secretary of the Ho Zongo Community Ulema, Abdul-Razak Abubakar.
