Meta Description: A leadership row at Taqwa Mosque in Njiru escalated into violence, leading to the arrest of an Imam for allegedly stabbing two people. Read the latest updates.
Leadership Wrangle Turns Violent at Njiru Mosque
Detectives at Kayole Police Station in Nairobi are holding an Imam accused of stabbing two individuals amid a heated leadership dispute over Taqwa Mosque in Njiru.
The Imam, identified as Mohamed Ibrahim Hussein, allegedly attacked Ahmed Mohamed and Edin Adan, both members of a rival faction, following a disagreement over the mosque’s management.
Leadership Dispute Boils Over
The dispute stems from a prolonged battle between two factions vying for control of the mosque. One faction is led by the Imam, while the other is spearheaded by the family of Ahmed Mohamed, whose mother donated the land for the mosque’s construction.
The family accuses the Imam of attempting to seize control of the mosque through questionable means. The confrontation reportedly turned violent when the Imam allegedly drew a knife and attacked Ahmed Mohamed and Edin Adan after prayers inside the mosque.
Victim Statements
Ahmed Mohamed, one of the victims, recounted:
“Sheikh Ibrahim claimed he had a court order to evict those managing the mosque. Suddenly, he pulled out a knife and stabbed me in the stomach and arm.”
Another victim, Edin Adan, said:
“We opposed their attempt to grab the mosque. I was injured in the head, requiring stitches.”
Escalation Despite Mediation
The violence erupted shortly after a meeting involving both factions and the Njiru sub-county security committee. The meeting had resolved to have the matter addressed by SUPKEM and Jamia Mosque.
Njiru Police Commander John Owuoth commented on the incident:
“Barely two minutes after the meeting, we received reports of fighting at the mosque. The injured were taken to Mama Lucy Hospital, and the Imam was arrested.”
Repeat Offender
This is not the first violent incident involving the Imam. In 2022, he allegedly attacked and injured Adan Tall during a similar leadership dispute. That case remains unresolved in court.
Current Developments
The Imam is currently in custody at Kayole Police Station and is expected to face charges on Tuesday. Authorities are urging both factions to seek peaceful resolution to avoid further clashes.
Conclusion
The escalating violence at Taqwa Mosque highlights the need for mediated dialogue and strict adherence to the rule of law to resolve disputes within religious communities.
