Believers of the Islamic faith in Ho are divided over a directive by the Volta Regional Security Council to close down the Ho Central Mosque temporarily.
This was after extensive meetings and consultations by the Council following a gunshot incident at the mosque a week ago, where gunmen opened fire on worshippers, injuring a number of people.
Background
The Ho Muslim community had witnessed a protracted conflict for about 5 years over who would become the Volta Regional Chief Imam.
The community has therefore been divided into two, with each part owing allegiance to Alhaji Alfa Anas Hamid and Alhaji Muniru Ali, who both claim to be the Volta Regional Chief Imam.
Despite the National Chief Imam selecting and installing Alhaji Muniru Ali as the legitimate Volta Regional Chief Imam, Alhaji Alfa Anas Hamid and his followers objected to this, though he was appointed as the Deputy Volta Regional Chief Imam.
They cited that the Muniru faction had influenced the office of the National Chief Imam to twist facts to suit their preferred candidate.
There has since been a power play over who has the authority over the Ho Central Mosque, where the followers of Alhaji Alfa Anas Hamid have refused to allow Alhaji Muniru Ali to lead prayers.
Gunshot incident
26th December 2025 witnessed a tragic incident of a gunshot in the Central Mosque, linked to the chieftaincy impasse.
Eleven people suffered gunshot wounds at various parts of their bodies, including legs and arms, as a result of sporadic shootings at the mosque.
Some 14 people who were arrested in connection with the incident and were sent to the Police Headquarters in Accra were released after interrogation.
Meanwhile, the Volta Regional Police Commander, DCOP Wisdom Akorli, speaking to the media, had indicated his outfit learnt the incident was premeditated after preliminary investigation.
Closure of Ho Central mosque
To prevent chaos and ensure safety and peace, the Volta Regional Security Council closed down the central mosque for two weeks.
A press release signed by the Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, declared the mosque a crime scene, explaining the decision was part of a set of steps being taken to resolve the conflict.
“The temporary closure will provide a calm and neutral environment to facilitate mediation efforts aimed at resolving ongoing disputes and restoring harmony among all parties involved,” he said.
The mosque area has since been placed under high security, with about 120 military and police personnel stationed to guard the facility, which is under lock and key.
Community reaction
The announcement was welcomed with mixed reactions from the Ho Zongo community, compelling Alhaji Alfa Anas Hamid and his followers to worship in an open space under tents.
A youth leader in the Zongo community, Kidza Mohammed, described the directive as an infringement on their right to worship, urging the authorities to “handle the issue devoid of favouritism”.
He bemoaned the instance where innocent people have become victims entangled in the power play, hoping “a solution will be delivered at the shortest possible time.”
On the other hand, the spokesperson for Alhaji Muniru Ali, Chief Adamu Hamani, welcomed the decision to close the mosque, believing it would help calm nerves, since it has become the bone of contention.
He unequivocally condemned the shooting incident, explaining that “it does not conform to the teachings and practices of the Islamic religion.”
Plea from Community members
Residents have lamented the protracted conflict, fearing its consequences on the development of economic and social aspects of the community.
Ayishatu Adamu expressed worry about the unfortunate incidents surrounding the Regional Chief Imam race, fearing it may truncate her education and perhaps make other residents orphans.
“I am a student; supposing my dad was shot dead, who would take care of my education and other needs? So, we are begging the authorities to do something about this quickly,” she pleaded.
Hajia Sherifatu questioned the “unconcerned” posture of political leaders in the municipality and requested the authorities to do due diligence to find an amicable and permanent solution to the conflict.
“It has been one week now since people were shot; even if fowls are killed, we feel pity for them. Where is the Municipal Chief Executive, where is the Member of Parliament, and where is the Regional Minister? None of them have come to visit us. Why?” she quizzed.
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