Shia members in the northern part of Nigeria seem to have resorted self-help to secure the release of their detained leader.
Ibrahim El Zakzaky
Members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, the body of Shiites in the country, have blocked the Zaria-Kaduna expressway, to protest against the prolonged detention of their leader, Ibrahim El Zakzaky, according to Premium Times.
Zakzaky has been detained since last year, December following a bloody confrontation with the Nigerian army which reportedly led to the death of over 300 Shiite members.
On the road blockage today, a source said “thousands” of Shiites blocked the expressway on Friday, denying road users passage.
The source said security operatives have been deployed to the scene. A spokesperson for the Shi’as, Musa Ibrahim, confirmed to the online news platform that he had received report that “some of our members” embarked on procession today, Friday, and were “attacked by thugs”.
“A report just reached my desk,” said Mr. Ibrahim. “Some of members embarked on peaceful procession today. But they were attacked by thugs at Maraban Jos (along Kaduna-Zaria expressway.”
He added that he was informed that the police intervened in the fight “but I don’t know whether there is casualty”. The procession is aimed at driving home their grievances to ensure Zakzaky's release.
The report is still developing.