Leader of Anbariya Sunni Community Dies, Bawumia, Haruna Iddrisu Lead Tributes
The Anbariya Islamic Institute as well as the entire Muslim community and people of Northern Ghana are mourning the death of Sheikh Saeed Abubakari Zakaria, the spiritual leader and head of the Anbariya Islamic Institute in Tamale. He passed away in Accra on Monday, September 7 and his body has since been flown back to Tamale.
Preparations are underway for his internment and funeral rites in accordance with Islamic tradition.
Meanwhile, tributes have been pouring in from prominent personalities, including former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and Tamale South Member of Parliament and Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, as well as leading Islamic institution.
The NPP Flagbearer for election 2028 described the late Sheikh Saeed as a towering figure in Islamic scholarship who dedicated his life to teaching, preaching and providing moral guidance to the Muslim community.
He also commended the late cleric for promoting education and spearheading the transformation of the Anbariya Institute into a centre of excellence.
Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, who described Sheikh Saeed as his personal mentor and benefactor, expressed deep sorrow over his death. He said the Sheikh passed away just hours before a planned medical evacuation to the United Arab Emirates.
The Education Minister described him as one of the most illustrious Islamic leaders of contemporary times and urged friends, colleagues and well-wishers to remember him in their prayers.
The Northern Regional Central Mosque also expressed condolences to the leadership, family, students and members of the Anbariya Sunni Community, describing Sheikh Saeed as a humble scholar and devoted servant of Allah who dedicated his life to promoting peace, unity and Islamic education.
Sheikh Saeed Abubakari Zakaria led Anbariya Institute for nearly two decades following his selection as the head in 2007. During his time, Anbariya attained influential status but was criticized for its hard-line stance on issues.
