The Zongo Youth addressing the media
The youth in the Ho Zongo community have strongly opposed the endorsement of Alhaji Muniru as the Volta Regional Chief Imam.
The appointment of Alhaji Muniru by the Asogli State and the Volta Regional Coordinating Council a few days ago reignited a protracted leadership dispute that began after the passing of the former Regional Chief Imam, Alhaji Hamza Danjuma.
A faction of the community insists that the then Deputy Chief Imam, Sheikh Alfa Anas, now acting as the Chief Imam, is the rightful successor and must be recognised as such.
At a press conference, the Vice Youth Leader of Ho Zongo, Abdul Razak Abubakar, sharply criticised what he described as political and traditional interference in the process of choosing an Imam. He urged state authorities to intervene quickly to ensure fairness and restore calm in the community.
“We, the members of the Ho Central Zongo community, vow to challenge the decision with our last drop of blood to resist any attempt by the so-called Volta Chief Imam, Alhaji Muniru, to organise any prayer or lead any congregation on behalf of the Muslim community because we do not recognise the said person as the Volta Regional Chief Imam,” he said.
He cautioned that political involvement in religious leadership matters poses a grave threat to the unity, stability, and peace of the Muslim community in the region. He further appealed to regional and national leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and other state authorities to ensure a transparent and just resolution of the matter.
The Zongo Youth Leader in Ho, Mohammed Salisu Kidzah, also reiterated the youth’s commitment to due process. He warned against intimidation by security agencies or traditional authorities, stressing that the youth remain resolute in defending what they believe to be the rightful succession.
“We stand for peace, and so we are sending a signal to the police service and the traditional leaders that we will not tolerate intimidation. Those planning to come to the Mosque on Friday to take over from us should not try it,” he warned.
The situation has raised concerns among residents, with community leaders and opinion leaders calling for urgent mediation to prevent further escalation. Authorities are yet to issue an official response to the brewing tension.
From Daniel K Orlando, Ho