The leader of Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), popularly known as Shiites, Sheikh Ibraheem El-Zakzaky was received in momentous celebration when he arrived the country after medical trip in Iran.
Upon his return from the medical trip, Sheikh Zakzaky was warmly welcomed by millions of people on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport and the National Stadium in Abuja.
A statement by Fatima Aliyu Adam on behalf of IMN said more than a million supporters flocked to the National Stadium in Abuja, the nation’s capital, for the celebration to welcome the leader and show their support and happiness.
She said, “Addressing the millions of people, Sheikh Zakzaky conveyed his gratitude for the warm reception, marking a significant occasion. This event stands as the first major gathering where he addressed his followers and the public since his release from Kaduna prison in 2021. The High Court of Kaduna State acquitted him of all charges brought against him by the government.
“Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky had embarked on a journey to Iran on October 11, 2023, seeking treatment for himself and his wife, Malama Zeenah Ibrahim. These health issues arose from the Nigerian army’s attack on their house in December 2015.”
The IMN recalled that in December 2015, during the regime of President Muhammadu Buhari, the Nigerian Army reportedly attacked Zakzaky’s residence, resulting in the tragic deaths of about a thousand of his disciples, including family members.
Following the attack, Sheikh Zakzaky and his wife were arrested and detained for approximately six years, ultimately gaining their freedom on July 28, 2021.
After two years of their release, in October 2023, the Nigerian government, now under Bola Ahmad Tinubu, returned their travel documents, permitting them to seek medical treatment abroad.
On Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at approximately 1:25pm, Leader Zakzaky, accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Zeenah, and their entourage, returned to Nigeria.
The dignitaries landed at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, then proceeded to the National Stadium, where a reception and celebration of their return were organized.
Friday Olokor, Abuja
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