On Friday, March 22nd, during the Jum’ah prayer session, a shocking incident unfolded at Masjid Thawuba, a mosque located at Macaulay Street, opposite Kissy Market, Shell, in the eastern part of Freetown. The congregation was taken aback as two imams engaged in a physical altercation, prompting chaos and endangering the safety of worshippers.

According to eyewitness accounts, the dispute erupted between the Chief Imam, Alhaji Tejan Kamara, and his Deputy, Shek Ibrahim. The altercation escalated to the extent that the police had to intervene, closing down the mosque and escorting both clerics for questioning.

The incident left worshippers shaken and bewildered, as they were forced to evacuate the mosque for their safety. The police presence underscored the seriousness of the situation, highlighting the need for immediate intervention to restore order and ensure the safety of all present.

Mohamed Lamin Kargbo, one of the eyewitnesses and a member of the mosque, described the scene as unprecedented and deeply troubling. He expressed dismay over the behavior of the imams, particularly on a day as significant as Friday during the holy month of Ramadan.

Traditionally, during Ramadan, imams take turns leading the congregation in prayer, with each imam allocated a specific number of days. However, in this instance, tensions arose when the Chief Imam reportedly disrupted the schedule, leading to a confrontation with his deputy.

The incident has sparked concerns among the Muslim community, with many questioning the integrity and leadership within the mosque. Such behavior not only undermines the sanctity of religious practices but also threatens the peaceful coexistence within the community.

As investigations continue into the cause of the altercation, it is imperative for religious leaders to reflect on their responsibilities and uphold the values of tolerance, respect, and unity. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for constructive dialogue and conflict resolution mechanisms within religious institutions to prevent such occurrences in the future.