BY Issah Olegor
The Office of the National Chief Imam has distanced itself from an alleged visa racketeering scandal involving individuals falsely claiming affiliation with the revered religious institution, describing the development as a criminal enterprise that must be investigated.
In a disclaimer issued by its Advisory Board and signed by Dr. Mohammed Marzuq Abubakari Azindoo, Personal Assistant to the Chief Imam, the Office said it had become aware of a group of persons allegedly impersonating staff members while attempting to facilitate visa applications at the United States Embassy in Ghana.
According to the statement issued on April 24, 2026, the issue originated when the Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, acting on medical advice, planned a trip to the United States for treatment, accompanied by three individuals from his residence.
However, one of them, identified as Abdur Rahman Umar Farooq, also known as “Paa,” allegedly expanded the list of intended travelers by adding five additional names, bringing the total number of visa applicants to nine.
The Advisory Board expressed concern that the group—described as a “Gang of Six”—went further to impersonate officials within the Chief Imam’s office. It alleged that “Paa” falsely presented himself as a secretary to the Chief Imam, while another individual impersonated Sergeant Razak Giwah, a known bodyguard to the Chief Imam.
The Office stated that it was “dismayed” by the actions of the individuals involved and firmly disassociated itself from the alleged scheme.
It stressed that any immigration violations linked to the suspects should not be attributed to the Office of the Chief Imam.
The statement further called on the Ghana Police Service Criminal Investigation Department to conduct a full investigation into the matter and take appropriate action in the interest of justice.
Additionally, the Office urged all diplomatic missions, including embassies and consulates, to remain vigilant and treat any approaches by the alleged individuals with caution, in line with established standards of consular integrity.
The Advisory Board indicated that it would follow the case closely to its logical conclusion in order to protect the image of the Chief Imam, preserve relations with the diplomatic community, and maintain public confidence in the institution.
