The Ghanaian Minaret

Accra: Hundreds of Muslims have joined the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Usman Nuhu Sharubutu, to hold vigil and commemorate the birth of the Holy Prophet.

The annual Maulid, which started from Saturday evening to Sunday morning, was marked with merrymaking, songs eulogising the Prophet Mohammed, speeches from guest speakers, and lectures on life lessons and teachings of the holy prophet.

The National Chief Imam has for the past 65 years been organising the annual event that has attracted dignitaries from Ghana and within the West African sub-region.

Some participants include political figures, religious leaders, traditional rulers and members of the diplomatic community.

Among the dignitaries present were the Minister of Education and Member of Parliament (MP) for Tamale South, Haruna Iddrisu, who represented President John Dramani Mahama, and MP for Asutifi South, Collins Dauda.

The theme for the event was “Compassion and Justice: Pillars of National Development and Global Order”.

In his address on behalf of the president, the education minister called on citizens to support the president in his fight against galamsey.

He urged Ghanaians to be compassionate to the environment and state resources so as to ensure justice prevails in accessing clean water, quality air and good food.

He thanked the Muslim community for the enormous support shown during the recent general election.

Representing the former vice president was Mr Ben Abdallah Banda, former Hajj Board chairman, who also expressed gratitude to the Muslim community.

He said Dr Mahamudu Bawumia remained hopeful that the current president will succeed for the betterment of Ghanaians.

Speaking on the theme of the event, Sheikh Mohammed Awwal Shuaib, Takoradi Chief Imam, said, “As we strive for development, we must prioritise promoting peace in society, ensuring that all individuals receive justice through legal reforms.”

The Chairperson of the event, Dr Ahmed Vanderpuye, in his remark, urged the Muslim community to emulate the life and legacies of Prophet Mohammed.

Prayers were said by Sheikh Sharubutu for President Mahama, Dr Bawumia, the government, dignitaries present at the event, the Muslim community, and the country as a whole.