General News
Ho Muslim Stakeholders Threaten Court Action Over “Unlawful” Installation of Regional Chief Imam
A coalition of Muslim leaders and youth in Ho has served notice of imminent legal action against newly installed Regional Chief Imam Alhaji Ali Muniru and the Asogli Traditional Council, accusing them of flouting Islamic law and contempt of court.The installation ceremony, held Saturday afternoon in the forecourt of the Asogli Palace, has reignited a decade-long succession dispute and drawn sharp criticism for blending traditional authority with religious leadership
Key Grievances
- Sub judice violation
The leadership contest between Acting Chief Imam Alhaji Alfa Anas and Alhaji Ali Muniru is pending before the Ho High Court (Suit No. E12/145/2024). Critics say Saturday’s ceremony amounts to contempt. - Hereditary vs merit-based succession
Alhaji Ali Muniru claims lineage to a Chief Imam who died in the 1980s. Stakeholders insist:“Imamship is not chieftaincy. It is not hereditary and cannot be imposed by a palace.”
— Sahaliu Mohammed Kidza, Youth Leader -
- State complicity alleged
The group accused the Volta Regional Minister, Dr Archibald Letsa, of endorsing the event despite awareness of the court case.
Timeline of the Dispute
- 2008: Last substantive Regional Chief Imam passes away.
- 2008–2025: Alhaji Alfa Anas serves as Deputy, then Acting Chief Imam for 17 years.
- 2024: Ali Muniru faction petitions Asogli State for recognition.
- Oct 2024: High Court restrains both sides from unilateral actions.
- 1 Nov 2025: Asogli Palace installs Ali Muniru amid heavy security.
Stakeholders’ UltimatumSpokesman Osumanu Musa Abiaduka told journalists:
“We shall file contempt and injunction applications on Monday, 3 November. The Asogli State has no jurisdiction over who leads our prayers.”
The coalition has urged calm, pledging to recognise only Alhaji Alfa Anas until the court rules.
