A wave of shock has swept through a quiet Muslim community in Accra after a violent altercation at a local mosque left two worshippers critically injured.
The incident, which occurred during early morning Fajr prayers on Friday, escalated when an imam, identified as Oki Bin Oki, allegedly stabbed two congregants during a heated dispute over mosque leadership, according to the Ghana Police Service.
Eyewitnesses reported that the altercation began shortly after prayers when a verbal confrontation turned violent. The imam is said to have drawn a sharp object, stabbing two men aged 32 and 45, prompting chaos among other worshippers.
Both victims sustained deep stab wounds and were immediately rushed to Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, where they remain in critical but stable condition.
Long-standing Leadership Tensions
Preliminary police investigations suggest the violence stemmed from a longstanding leadership dispute within the mosque. A faction of congregants had reportedly questioned the imam’s legitimacy and demanded a new appointment—tensions that had been simmering for weeks.
“We received a distress call from residents in the early hours and immediately dispatched officers to the scene,” said Chief Superintendent Isaac Owusu of the Accra Regional Police Command. “The suspect was arrested on the spot and is currently assisting with investigations.”
Community in Shock
Community leaders have described the attack as unprecedented and deeply disturbing.
“This is a house of peace, and we never imagined such violence could take place here,” said Alhaji Musa, a respected elder in the community. “We urge the police to investigate thoroughly and ensure justice is served.”
Calls for Calm
The National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, condemned the violence in a public statement, urging Muslims across the country to resolve internal disputes peacefully and respectfully.
He emphasized the importance of dialogue, warning that acts of violence within sacred spaces undermine the core values of Islam.
Legal Action and Ongoing Investigation
The suspect is expected to be arraigned before court next week on charges of attempted murder and causing harm. Police have not ruled out the involvement of others and say investigations are still ongoing.
The attack has reignited national discussions around mosque security and oversight in leadership transitions, with many calling for