The National Chief Imam, Sheikh Usmanu Nuhu Sharubutu has entreated all regional, district and institutional Imams and Chiefs across the country to join hands in the prevention of possible penetration of extremists into Ghana.

The Chief Imam made the call in a press statement released in Accra entitled: “‘JIHAD’ of Hope For Peace and Security.”

It followed an earlier pledge Sheikh Sharubutu had made on behalf of Muslims to the Inspector General of Police “to collaborate and cooperate with security agencies in the country in an effort to enhance security in Ghana.”

He declared, “In keeping with the pledge, and in view of the increasing menace of the so-called Muslim extremists in affected countries, my commitment to and strong desire and urge for promoting national security and peace has been growing in strength in recent times.”

He added, “In this vein, I am entreating all regional, district and institutional imams, chiefs and indeed all Muslim men and women of conscience and true faith to join hands with me in the ‘JIHAD’ of hope for security through prayers for all afflicted nations.”

According to him, there was the strong need “for imams and leaders of Muslim communities to caution members of their congregations and societies against possible penetration of the ideological influence of extremist groups who are using all means, including the social media, to extend frontiers of their operations by attracting more support and following.”

Beyond caution, Dr. Nuhu Sharubutu advised, “Imams in particular, are further entreated to use sermons to encourage members of their congregations to be watchful to identify and expose foreigners who may infiltrate our communities with signs of connection with extremist groups like Al-Qa’eda, or Boko Haram.”

He warned that “This, however, should be carried out without any intention to cause mischief or malice against foreigners who are in the country for genuine reasons.”

Terrorism is currently one of the major security threats seriously affecting the world, with extremist groups like the Islamic militants, Boko Haram of Nigeria and Al Shabab of Somalia, the Islamic State (IS) of Iraq, among others, constantly carrying out deadly attacks.

Dr. Nuhu Sharubutu reiterated the need for religious tolerance. “In line with the commitment to promote peace, I would like to re-echo my usual message of religious tolerance and peaceful co-existence, both of which are major ingredients in the promotion and maintenance of peace in Ghana,” the Chief Imam said, stressing that “in this regard, I urge Muslims at all levels to respect the beliefs, rights and concerns of non-Muslims and to be kind and fair to them at all times.”