Shia community in Tamale ready to observe Jumah prayers on June 5

The Shia community in Tamale has indicated that it is ready to observe the Jumah prayers on Friday after some months of closure of mosques.

This follows the easing of restrictions on religious activities in the country by President Akufo-Addo in his 10th address on COVID-19.

The president on Sunday May 31 in a televised address to the nation which outlined the roadmap aimed at relaxing restrictions instituted to control the spread of the novel Coronavirus, announced an abridged format of religious services can commence.

While some religious groups welcome the announcement to start worshipping in congregation with strict adherence to the safety precautions against the pandemic, some Churches and Mosque’s, have issued statements informing members that they remain closed to the general public.

Notable among them were the Ahmadiya Muslim Mission in Ghana, Victory Bible Church International among others.

The Shia community is one of the largest Muslim groups in Tamale.

Its leader in the Northern Region, Sheikh Dalhu Abdul Mumin says the Shia community welcomes the announcement by the President and will observe the Jumah prayers on Friday, June 5.

He revealed, the leadership of Shia in the region have so far made provisions for Veronica buckets, soap, hand sanitizers and other materials to observe the safety protocols.

He said his outfit will strictly ensure all protocols especially on social distancing and wearing of nose masks.

“The gradual relaxation of the restrictions is in our interest and we will abide by it,” he said

Sheikh Dalhu added, the hundred congregants at a time announced by the President is to ensure proper social distancing .

He thanked government and all stakeholders in the fight for their relentless efforts to bring the country this far.

He was happy the recoveries keep rising.

Some members who were at the mosque in the Tamale Metropolis to clean ahead of Friday service shared their views on the easing of restrictions by government.

They promised to abide by all protocols