Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has resolved a seven-year leadership dispute between two Izala factions that led to the closure of one of the largest Juma’at mosques in Moriki town, Zurmi Local government.
The Izala Juma’at mosque in Moriki had been closed for over seven years due to a leadership dispute between two factions in the community.
The leadership tussle was between the Kaduna and Jos factions of the Jama’atul Izalatul Bidi’a Wa’ikamatus Sunnah (JIBWIS), popularly known as Izala.
The Izala faction in Jos is headed by Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, while the Kaduna faction (headquartered in Abuja), is led by Sheikh Bala Lau.
The leadership tussle started seven years ago following the death of the Imam of the mosque.
Each of the two Izala factions wanted to produce the next Imam of the mosque, a situation that degenerated into violent conflict leading to the shutdown of the mosque by the Zamfara state government.
Governor Lawal’s intervention was triggered by a video footage which surfaced online a fortnight ago, showing the extent of dilapidation of the town’s second biggest worship centre.
A statement by Governor Lawal’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, on Saturday, said the intervention was necessary to address the disunity among the people.
He said the governor recognized unity’s crucial role in fostering social harmony and promoting sustainable development, especially in trying times.
“Yesterday (Friday) the Zamfara State Government, under the leadership of Governor Dauda Lawal, resolved the seven-year dispute that resulted in the closure of one of the largest Friday Mosques in Moriki town, Zurmi local government.
“The Zamfara State government deemed it necessary to intervene and take measures to mitigate any factors contributing to disunity among the people.
“Governor Lawal directed the Ministry of Religious Affairs to construct a new mosque for the other party in the dispute. The new mosque is expected to be completed in three months.
“Both parties have agreed to comply with the terms of the government’s agreement.
The last Friday prayer was led by Sheikh Abbas Moriki, whose sermon centred around unity among people.
In his remarks, the Emir of Moriki, Bashar Isma’ila Muhammad, extended his gratitude to God for witnessing the reopening. He also commended the state government for its timely intervention in resolving the end of the dispute.
