Youth in the Ho Zongo community of the Volta Region are demanding a lasting resolution to the Volta Regional Chief Imam impasse and objecting to the “knee-jerk” approach to resolving the issue.
They raised concerns about alleged political interference, urging political players to stay out of the issue, which is fueling violent among members of the community.
The Zongo Youth spokesperson, Abdul Razak Abubakar, entreated the Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, the Volta Regional Security Council and other relevant institutions to endeavour to bring closure to the Chief Imam impasse.
He warned of the consequences should the governing National Democratic Congress pick sides in the impasse or fail to restore peace in the Ho Zongo community.
“The youth reserve the right to express their political disappointment through peaceful and lawful democratic means, including at the ballot box. No political party should take the support of any community for granted while legitimate concerns remain unresolved”, said Mr Abubakar.
Shooting incident unresolved
He recounted how the impasse was marked by a violent incident in December 2025, which resulted in the injury of scores of believers who had gathered at the Central Mosque for Salat al-Jumu’ah prayers.
He explained that the victims were yet to receive justice, as the culprits had not been prosecuted.
He therefore entreated the Interior Ministry to relaunch investigations into the shooting incident and ensure that those found culpable were brought to book to appease grieving hearts.
“We also call on the Minister for the Interior to take urgent interest in the reported shooting incident, ensure a thorough investigation and help prevent any further violence. The safety of worshippers and residents must be paramount”, he said.
Closure of mosque
Following the shooting incident, the mosque was closed to the public to avert further clashes, forcing believers to worship on the premises.
It was, however, opened briefly for the National Chief Imam, His Eminence Sheikh Dr Osmanu Nuhu Sharubutu, accompanied by the Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, to perform some prayers two weeks ago. The mosque has since been locked to worshippers.
Mr Abubakar warned that the Zongo youth would launch a series of demonstrations until an amicable solution to the Volta Regional Chief Imam impasse was found and the Ho Central Mosque reopened for its intended purpose.
“The reopening of the mosque must be pursued through lawful coordination with the relevant authorities, with the safety of worshippers and the wider community fully protected. We expect the Minister to act urgently and demonstrate genuine leadership before tensions escalate further”, he said.