No service until full ban is lifted – E/R Chief Imam

The Eastern Regional Chief Imam, Alhaji Yussif Amudani Sulemana, has said congregational prayers would not resume until the full ban on religious activities is lifted.

He explained that the directives by the Minister of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs which followed President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s announcement on Sunday would be difficult to comply with because of the huge numbers that come into the mosque.

A few minutes to midday Friday, the usual numbers that throng the Koforidua Central Mosque were missing.

The Tasbao left behind were closely together in silence but its owners must stay apart to offer Jummah prayers.

The ablution cans, popularly called Buta, and mats would also have to wait a little bit more longer for active use at the mosque.

The Koforidua Central Mosque on a usual Friday can accommodate over 250 Muslims for the Jummah prayers.

But the congregational prayers could not be observed because of Covid-19.

It’s Azan salat, time for prayers, and the Laadan must still make calls for Muslims far and near to observe their Jummah prayers wherever they are.

Haruna Yussif Wupini misses congregational prayers.

“It’s a Friday, I wished we we’re allowed to pray at the Mosque. But it is not possible. The place hasn’t been disinfected and fumigated yet.”

Chief Imam Alhaji Yussif Amudani Sulemana says congregational prayers would resume after the restrictions is fully lifted.

“The directive by the President would be difficult to adhere to here. Our numbers are large. We would wait until the restrictions are fully taken off.”

He cautioned Muslim youth against stigmatising persons who recover from Covid-19.