The leader of the Islamic Movement, also known as Shiites, Sheikh Ibraheem El-Zakzaky, and his wife, Zeenah, have returned to Nigeria after a medical trip to Iran.
The Islamic leader and wife, who embarked on the journey on October 11, 2023, to seek treatment for themselves, arrived in Abuja with a rousing welcome from millions of supporters at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport and the National Stadium in Abuja.
This was contained in a statement made available on Friday morning by Nuruddeen Musa-umar.
It reads: "In a momentous celebration, millions of people warmly welcomed His Eminence Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky (H).
"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.
"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.
"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 the esteemed leader addressed his followers and the public since his release from Kaduna prison in 2021.
Related Articles
"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.
"In December 2015, during the Buhari regime, the Nigerian Army attacked Sheikh 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 1:25, Leader Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky, accompanied by his wife, Malama 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."
