By Hebrews Pouyeli Kumako
The Yorùbá Chief Imam for Ketu South Municipality and Proprietor of Al-Munawwarat Academy in Aflao, Chief Imam Abdul Lateef Abdul-Salam, has strongly condemned the spread of misleading information and negative narratives against Islam, describing them as dangerous, divisive, and harmful to peaceful coexistence.
In an exclusive interview with News Volta, the Chief Imam stressed that Islam is a pure, peaceful, and holy religion established by Allah, founded on love, compassion, justice, tolerance, and respect for humanity.
“Islam is peace. Any person who calls himself or herself a Muslim and does not stand for peace is not practicing the true teachings of Islam. Such people only use the name of Islam for their selfish interests,” he emphasized.
As Muslims across Ghana and the world observe this year’s Ramadan, Chief Imam Abdul Lateef Abdul-Salam appealed to individuals who engage in mischievous acts, violence, hatred, extremism, and behaviours that disturb peace in families, communities, nations, and across the world — while bearing the name Islam or Muslim — to use this sacred period to seek Allah’s mercy, forgiveness, and genuine repentance.
“This holy month of Ramadan should be a time of deep reflection, spiritual cleansing, repentance, and total submission to Allah. Anyone who is causing confusion, violence, and unrest in the name of Islam should turn back to Allah, ask for forgiveness, and return to the true path of peace,” he urged.
He explained that Ramadan is meant to reshape character, strengthen discipline, and promote humility, patience, kindness, and compassion toward all people.
The Chief Imam also condemned the increasing circulation of false news, propaganda, and attacks on Islam, especially on social media, saying such misinformation fuels fear, hatred, and misunderstanding among religious groups.
He urged journalists, bloggers, religious leaders, and community influencers to practice responsible communication and promote messages that foster unity, tolerance, and national cohesion.
“Islam teaches peaceful coexistence. We must reject every attempt to distort the truth and divide people along religious lines,” he added.
Chief Imam Abdul Lateef Abdul-Salam encouraged Muslims, especially the youth, to deepen their knowledge of Islam through the Holy Qur’an and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and to become ambassadors of peace through their daily conduct.
“Let us show the world the true face of Islam through our character, love, humility, respect, and service to humanity,” he advised.
He concluded by calling for stronger unity among all religious groups in Ghana, stressing that peace, tolerance, and mutual respect remain key pillars for national stability, development, and progress.
Source News Volta
