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The National Chief Imam, Sheikh Dr Osman Nuhu Sharubutu over the weekend joined dozens of mourners and well-wishers across the country to sympathize with Managing Editor of The aL-hAJJ, Alhaji Bature Iddrisu, on the tragic loss of his immediate sister, Hajia Bintu Arimiyao.

Accompanied by Senior Muslim clerics, members of his household, members of the Council of Zongo Chiefs and opinion leaders, the National Chief Imam prayed for the departed soul at an Islamic ceremony (Adua) on Saturday at Nima “Gutter” opposite Sheikh Mallam Musah’s mosque.

Sheikh Dr Osman Nuhu Sharubutu in his sermon also prayed for all departed souls and offered prayers for the nation. The National Chief Imam, assisted by some senior clerics and Imams, also prayed for continued peaceful coexistence among the various religious beliefs in Ghana even as the country’s heads towards presidential and parliamentary elections this year.

The late Hajia Bintu, popularly called Matan-Mallam, died in the early hours of Sunday, July 24 while being transported to the hospital following what was suspected to be cardiac arrest.

She was buried the same day at the Madina cemetery in accordance with Islamic custom. The 56 year old late sister of Alhaji Bature was survived by six children and three grandchildren.

In a message to convey his appreciation for love shown him and his family, Alhaji Bature thanked the National Chief Imam and all participants who took time off their busy schedules to celebrate the life of his late sister and, gave her a befitting farewell.

He also used the occasion to admonished members and supporters of the governing National Democratic Congress not to put pressure on President Mahama to intervene in the “Montie 3” issue as he (President) has found himself presently “between the rock and the deep blue sea”.

According to The aL-hJJ’s Managing Editor, if the President is pushed to grant the demand of the NDC supporters by freeing the convicted persons; it would not only set a dangerous precedent for Ghana, but that singular act could endanger the security and peace of the country, particularly as the country inches to another crucial election.

The Supreme Court presided by Justice Sophia Akufo convicted Messrs Salifu Maase, alias Mugabe, Alistair Tairo Nelson and Ako Gunn to four months in prison and a fine of GH10,000 each after they were found guilty of criminal contempt.

Incensed by their incarceration, their lawyers have petitioned the President to invoke article 72 of the 1992 constitution to free them.

Members and sympathizers of the ruling party are also hoping to collect one million signatures aimed at petitioning the President to free them.

But some, including lead attorney for President Mahama, Tony Lithur have caution those calling on the President to free the convicted persons to tread cautiously as any such move could undermine the authority of the judiciary.