Is congregational prayer acceptable in a nearby mosque that follows the Hanafi school of thought and practices some innovations, and whose imam is Ash'ari or Maturidi in creed, and will one receive the reward for congregational prayer there, or is it obligatory to go to the distant mosque of the Sunnis?

Prayer behind an Ash'ari or Maturidi is valid as long as they remain within the fold of Islam, even if they differ with the Ahl al-Sunnah wal-Jama'ah on fundamental issues. Among the Ash'aris and Maturidis, there may be an ignorant follower or a forgiven mujtahid (independent reasoner). As for following the Hanafi madhhab, it is not blameworthy unless there is fanaticism for the madhhab. The Companions, the Tabi'un, and the four Imams have all agreed on the validity of a man's prayer behind someone who differs from his madhhab. It is necessary to deal with those who differ with wisdom and gentleness, and to advise them.