Zaria Massacre: Buhari will answer on Judgment Day – El-Zakzaky
Story By Ibraheem EL-TAFSEER
Leader of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, Sheikh Ibraheem El-Zakzaky, has declared that former President Muhammadu Buhari will be held accountable on the Day of Judgment over the 2015 Zaria massacre, which led to the deaths of hundreds of his followers.
Speaking at a press conference marking the 10th anniversary of the military crackdown, El-Zakzaky condemned the silence and inaction of successive governments on the incident.
The clash occurred when a convoy of the then Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, in Zaria, Kaduna state. Opened fire on Shi’a followers while they were holding a gathering at their Hussainiyya center, claiming that the Shi’a members had blocked the road for their leader COAS. Many Shi’a followers were killed in the incident. According to Human Rights Watch, at least 300 Islamic Movement members were killed and buried in secret mass graves.
El-Zakzaky and his wife, Zeenat, were arrested and detained until their acquittal in 2021 by a Kaduna State High Court.
Sheikh El-Zakzaky accused the Buhari administration of ignoring the recommendations of a judicial commission of inquiry, which submitted its findings in 2016. He also criticised the current government for failing to honour its promises to compensate victims and address the injustice, describing their silence as deliberate neglect.
El-Zakzaky stated that, “As for Buhari, it’s simple. He has passed away. We will meet on the Day of Judgement. The equation of Buhari is over.” He recalled that while he was bleeding from gunshot wounds in 2015, one of Buhari’s ministers called him. “I said, tell him my greetings. We will meet on the Day of Judgement,” he added.
READ ALSO: Sheikh Zakzaky sends heartfelt condolences over the passing of Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi
El-Zakzaky expressed disappointment over the failure of both the Buhari administration and the current government to acknowledge the incident, implement the recommendations of a judicial commission, or compensate victims.
He insisted that justice should be served without the Islamic Movement in Nigeria having to demand it, adding that the massacre only strengthened the movement’s resolve and visibility worldwide.
On the possibility of dialogue, he said the government knows it is possible, but questioned its sincerity. He also revealed that legal proceedings had commenced internationally through the Islamic Human Rights Commission. Despite restrictions, he vowed the Islamic Movement Nigeria would continue its activities.
Follow the Neptune Prime channel on WhatsApp:
Do you have breaking news, interview request, opinion, suggestion, or want your event covered? Email us at neptuneprime2233@gmail.com
