BY: Adam Firdaws | VoltaOnline
The Ho Central Mosque reopened on Saturday, October 10, 2026, after months of closure occasioned by a protracted Imamship dispute. The reopening, however, was marred by fresh tensions as rival factions clashed over who should lead the congregation in prayer.
The decision to reopen followed an emergency meeting convened by the Volta Regional Security Council (REGSEC) on Friday night. Volta Regional Minister Hon. James Gunu reportedly communicated the directive to both factions — one aligned with Mallam Anas and the other with Mallam Muniru. The Ho Municipal Police Commander supervised the reopening, underscoring the sensitivity of the matter.
Sources close to both factions confirmed they had been duly informed, though some expressed cautious optimism about the reopening with the leadership question remaining unresolved.
The National Chief Imam, who had travelled to Ho for a Maulid celebration organized by the Fulani community, joined the reopening ceremony and offered prayers for peace, unity, and reconciliation within the Muslim community. His presence was intended to lend spiritual weight to the occasion and encourage calm.
Yet, tensions flared during the Zuhr prayers when both factions attempted to present rival leaders to lead worship. The ensuing commotion compelled the National Chief Imam, the Regional Minister, and other dignitaries to leave the premises. Police officers intervened swiftly to restore order, and although the atmosphere was charged, no injuries were reported.
The mosque remains open to worshippers, but the leadership question is unresolved. The uncertainty continues to raise concerns about whether lasting peace can be secured in Ho’s Muslim community or whether divisions will persist.
The Imamship dispute has long divided worshippers at the Ho Central Mosque. On December 26, 2025, masked men opened fire near the mosque, injuring ten people. Fourteen suspects were subsequently arrested, while one identified as Ayuba remains at large.
Background
The Volta Regional Chief Imam’s office condemned the violence, alleging persistent obstruction of Alhaji Ali Muniru’s authority despite his affirmation by the National Chief Imam. The office accused rival supporters of intimidation and questioned the neutrality of security agencies in handling the matter.
The reopening of the mosque now serves as a litmus test for reconciliation efforts. Whether the factions can overcome entrenched divisions or whether tensions will continue to threaten communal stability remains to be seen.
Source: www.voltaonlinegh.com
