Sheikh Ibraheem El-Zakzaky, the leader of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), also known as Shiites, has strongly condemned both past and present administrations for their failure to deliver justice regarding the 2015 Zaria massacre and for the worsening insecurity nationwide.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday ahead of the anniversary of the bloody clash, El-Zakzaky declared the IMN to be “a power to be reckoned with,” praising the resilience and commitment of its millions of members against state force.
The IMN leader praised his followers for their unwavering commitment in the face of violent state opposition, referencing the 2015 clash where many were killed.
“In terms of numbers, even if you hate us, you know that we are millions. In terms of commitment, we have shown that guns cannot frighten us, because we have faced them. Pictures show when people bare-handed approach those who are shooting them,” he said.
When asked if he had forgiven the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, whose administration oversaw the military operation, El-Zakzaky stated they would meet on the Day of Judgment.
He recounted a phone call he received from one of Buhari’s ministers while he was injured.
He said: “I told the minister that now I am waiting for my blood to drain so that I will pass, and I told him my greetings to General Buhari. I hope they will do the government well. We will meet on the day of judgement.”
The 2015 clash in Zaria occurred during a Maulud celebration when IMN members occupied a major highway and reportedly blocked the convoy of the then Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Tukur Buratai.
What began as a standoff escalated into violence as soldiers opened fire, claiming the blockage threatened the army chief’s safety. The IMN disputed the military’s account, insisting its members were unarmed and that the army used unjustifiable force.
In the hours that followed, soldiers launched coordinated operations on IMN sites, including El-Zakzaky’s residence, with human rights groups later reporting that hundreds were killed, figures the military denied.
After years in detention and prolonged legal battles, El-Zakzaky and his wife, Zeenat, were released in July 2021 when a Kaduna State High Court discharged and acquitted them of all charges.
© 2025 Naijaonpoint, a division of NOP Media Inc. Contact us via [email protected]