The National Chief Imam, Sheik Dr Osman Nuhu Sharubutu has condemned the shooting incident at the Ho Central Mosque on Boxing Day, saying it is an affront to Islamic sanctity, a threat to national security, and a deviation from basic civility.

In a press statement issued on Monday (Dec 29, 2025) the National Chief Imam made it clear that Sheik Ali Muniru was the legitimate Volta Regional Imam, and Sheik Anas was the Deputy Regional Imam.

The Chief Imam's statement was signed on his behalf by his Personal Assistant, Abubakar Mohammed Marzuq Azindo.

“The selection of Sheik Muniru has not been an imposition, but a product of consultation and mediation,” he explained.

It was, therefore, incredible how a resolved matter continue to be a source of violence, he added.

It said the violence was traceable to the contest for the Volta Regional Imamship between Sheik Muniru and Sheik Anas.

The National Chief Imam said the two leaders were his children from whom he expected solidarity and cordiality in the service of Allah and humanity.

He urged followers of the two leaders to be law-abiding and peace-loving in line with the norms of Islam.

He also appealed to the police to exhibit impartiality in handling the issue, saying selective justice amounted to injustice.

He prayed for the speedy recovery of those who sustained injury during the disturbances.

Meanwhile, the Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu has warned that any individual or group whose unruly conduct undermines the peace at the Zango community would suffer swift and ruthless consequences.

He said the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) would not stand aside and look unconcerned when some people took the law into their hands to unleash terror on other members of the community.

Mr Gunu told Graphic Online on Tuesday [December 30, 2025] that the REGSEC had met with both sides in the matter and warned them to refrain from violence.

“No one is above the law and so, anyone who disrespects the law will face the full rigours of the law,” the regional minister cautioned.