Supreme leader of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), Sheikh Ibraheem El-Zakzaky and his wife, Zeenah, have returned to the country after spending five months in Iran.
Politics Nigeria understands that El-Zakzaky was in Iran for medical care.
The Shi’ite leader was warmly received by thousands of followers at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport before proceeding to the Moshood Abiola Stadium for a grand reception.
This marked his first major public appearance since his release from Kaduna prison in July 2021, signifying a pivotal moment for him and his followers.
Addressing his supporters, El-Zakzaky said: “We are better than we were, even though we have not completed our treatment. Perhaps, after six months, we may have to go back for the continuation of the next stage of treatment. We are very happy that we are back safely.”
He recounted the memorable aspects of his trip, including his meeting with Ayatollah Ali Khomeini, the leader of the Islamic Revolution.
He said this encounter, among others, has fortified his resolve to continue his work in Nigeria and emphasised his determination to persevere despite previous governmental opposition.
“We will continue what has been started (revivalist Islam). Nothing has stopped. You know the attempt by the last regime was to silence us once and for all, but they could see that we have continued with our activities all through their eight years of tyrannical rule,” he said.
Recall that El-Zakzaky and his wife were arrested after an attack by the Nigerian Army on their residence in December 2015.
The incident led to the tragic loss of about a thousand of his followers, including family members.
He was acquitted by the High Court of Kaduna State of all charges in 2021 after spending six years in detention.
