Sheikh Ibrahim El-Zakzaky leads the Islamic Movement in Nigeria. He recently spoke out on the 10th anniversary of a tragic event. His words highlight ongoing struggles for justice.
The 2015 Zaria Clash
Nigerian soldiers clashed with Shiite Muslims in Zaria, Kaduna State, in December 2015. The incident started when IMN members blocked the convoy of then Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Tukur Buratai. Soldiers then launched a large-scale operation that killed hundreds of IMN followers. Human Rights Watch reported 300 deaths and secret burials.
Authorities arrested El-Zakzaky and his wife, Zeenat. They held the couple in detention until 2021. A court finally acquitted them of all charges.
El-Zakzaky Confronts Buhari’s Legacy
El-Zakzaky directly addressed former President Muhammadu Buhari. He stated that they will meet on Judgment Day. “As for Buhari, it’s simple. He has passed away. We will meet on the Day of Judgement,” El-Zakzaky said.
Moreover he recalled a phone call from a minister while he lay wounded. El-Zakzaky sent greetings to Buhari and emphasized their future reckoning. This statement underscores his unforgiving stance.
Government’s Ongoing Silence
The Buhari administration set up a judicial commission in 2016. However officials never released the report or acknowledged the killings. El-Zakzaky criticized this inaction.
Additionally, the current government promised compensation before taking power. Yet. leaders have maintained total silence. “They do not even acknowledge that anything happened,” he noted.
Attempts to suppress the IMN backfired. Instead the crackdown spread the group’s message worldwide. Global protests followed El-Zakzaky’s arrest. Furthermore, the IMN pursues international legal action. El-Zakzaky affirmed that courts will examine the evidence one day.
Plans for Commemoration
The group plans to mark the anniversary with displays and pictures. Despite restrictions, El-Zakzaky declared they will persist. “If they don’t want to see us, they will still see us,” he said.
In conclusion, El-Zakzaky calls for justice without demands. He believes the government knows the wrongs committed. This event reminds Nigerians of unresolved human rights issues.
