By Emmanuel Fletcher 
Ghanaians across the country are expressing serious concerns following reckless comments made by an Islamic preacher during Sallah teachings. The preacher openly declared that anyone who speaks against Prophet Mohammed or calls him a false prophet should undergo beheading.
The inflammatory sermon triggered immediate fear and public outrage across religious communities. Many citizens questioned whether peace and freedom of speech remain safe in Ghana under such extreme rhetoric.
Recognizing the gravity of the threat to national harmony, the National Chief Imam, His Eminence Sheikh Dr. Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, took swift action. Through his official spokesperson, the Grand Mufti’s office issued a public press release firmly condemning the dangerous sermon.
The Chief Imam’s office urged the Ghana Police Service to investigate the preacher immediately. Islamic leadership emphasized that such radical ideas do not represent authentic Muslim teachings or the peaceful values of Ghanaian society.
Preacher apologizes but defends controversial doctrine
Facing heavy public condemnation, the Mallam released a follow-up message attempting to apologize for the widespread panic his words created. However, his apology offered little comfort to concerned citizens as he insisted his statement reflected traditional Quranic teachings.
The preacher acknowledged that Ghana operates under secular constitutional laws rather than religious legal codes. He noted that national laws prevent such severe punishments from taking effect in the country, admitting that constitutional authority overrides religious decrees.
Despite this legal reality, his attempt to justify the sermon’s underlying logic sparked further debate. Concerned Ghanaians pointed out that preaching such ideas can easily radicalize followers and incite violence against non-Muslims and critics.
National Chief Imam steps in to preserve peace
The intervention by the Office of the National Chief Imam has reassured citizens who feared rising interfaith tension. Spokespersons for Sheikh Dr. Osman Nuhu Sharubutu reiterated that Ghana’s long-standing tradition of interfaith tolerance remains non-negotiable.
Islamic leaders reassured the public that Ghanaian Muslims respect the nation’s constitution and live peacefully alongside Christian neighbors. Religious authorities emphasized that individual preachers cannot issue extrajudicial execution calls or undermine national security.
Law enforcement officers are reviewing the sermon and subsequent statements to determine appropriate legal action. Citizens continue to call for vigilant monitoring of religious broadcasts to stop hate speech and safeguard national stability.
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