Sokoto gov’t reopens Bela Juma’at Mosque Gwiwa after appointing Interim Imam

Sokoto State Government has announced the reopening of Bela Juma’at Mosque Gwiwa , Wamakko Local Government area earlier closed due to wrangling dispute between the Izala group and Mosque’s owner.

Professor Jabir Sani Maihulla who is the State Commissioner for Religious Affairs, disclosed this while briefing journalists on the new development regarding the controversial Mosque on Thursday in Sokoto.

“The mosque will reopen for Juma’at prayers, and the decision to close it has been suspended.”

“The dispute began when a lady donated land and N800,000 to build the mosque, which was later completed by the Khatar Foundation.”

“The mosque was initially handed over to the Zakkat and Waqaf, but was later returned to the lady.”

” The Mosque owner appointed Malam Hamisu a Sokoto based Islamic scholar and member of the Izalatul Bid’a Waikamatus Sunna sector to serve as substantive Imam”

“A dispute arise between the lady and Mosque Imam Malam Hamisu with Izala group backing the former Imam.”

“The woman claimed ownership of the mosque, while the Izala group insisted they had right over her claim ownership” .

“The matter was taken to court, and the police eventually resolved that the woman was the rightful owner.”

“Despite accepting the resolution initially, the Izala group later withdrew, stating that they should rather build a new mosque nearby”.

“The Sokoto State Urban and Regional Development agency denied permission for building another due the proximity of the existing mosque and the new one expected to be built.”

“The state ministry for Religious Affairs intervened, constituting a committee to investigate the issue”.

“The committee recommended seizing the mosque from both parties. Notable Islamic scholars present at the meeting includes Malam Yahaya Na Malam Boyi, Sarkin Malaman Sokoto, Ahmad Umar Helele, Alkalin Makamai, Dr. Sani Abdullahi Jos, and Sheilk Mustapha Sidi Attahiru, Bashir Gidan Kadawa and Malam Lawal Muhammad Maidoki.

Others are Secretary to the Waziri of Sokoto and Divisional Police Officer Gwiwa Acre were invited to also serve as mediators in the dispute.

“After meeting with both parties, it was resolved that a third-party be appointed as Imam to lead Juma’at prayers temporarily.”

“Dr. Sani Abdullahi Jos will continue to lead prayers pending the appointment of a substantive Imam.” Says the prof

“The scholars emphasized the importance of reconciliation and de-escalating tensions, as a mosque should not be a center for dispute”. Says Commissioner