TheCable

The Sovereign Right Coalition (SRC), a socio-political group, has demanded the immediate prosecution of Ibrahim El-Zakzaky, leader of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN).

Zakzakky has been in detention since December when he was arrested following a clash between members of his sect and some soldiers.

Despite series of protests by his followers and pressure from the international community, particularly Iran, the government has not released the sect leader.

Accusing Iran of sponsoring Zakzaky’s group to create disaffection in the country, members of SRC staged a protest to the Iranian embassy in Ikoyi, Lagos.

The protesters wielded placards and banners with inscriptions: ‘We hate terrorism and can’t afford to breed a new one in this country’, ‘Stop Iran from sponsoring terrorism in our country’, ‘Attorney General of federation and Minister of justice prosecute Zakzakky now’.

“Today marks another epoch in the existence and survival of our dear nation Nigeria as it grapples to stay alive from the forces of terror and their allies who have held our nation hostage for over a decade,” Aaron Aaron, coordinator of the group, said.

“It is a special day in the lives of all patriotic Nigerians as we have gathered here today to register our rejection of imperialism and terror from religious extremists and their sponsors.

”The happenings in the north-eastern part of the country are familiar to all who live in or are interested in Nigeria. It is common knowledge that there has in the last decade, been a sprouting of religious fanatic groups which have unsuccessfully attempted to foist their beliefs on innocent Nigerians using terror as their tool of evangelism.

“Today the gallant Nigerian Army has gotten the upper hand in this fight and most of these groups have been brought in check. However it is our belief that even the little cells of terrorist groups be checkmated.

“It is also not news that the group, Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) led by its leader Mr. Ibraheem El Zakzakky had attempted an assault on the Chief of Army Staff and his motorcade in Kaduna where in the course of the operation, he was arrested and a cache of arms was recovered.

”Unfortunately even after this blatant display of disregard for the nation’s security, these terrorists have continued to display obtuse discount for the nation’s sovereignty in their treasonable attempts to occupy parts of the nation in a bid to form their own republic.

“It is on this belief that we are here today to establish our reproach for the postponed trial of Mr. Ibraheem El Zakzaky who is the leader of this notorious sect which has and is still reigning terror on masses in Northern Nigeria.

“Our concern is based on the trail of violent acts that have trailed the Iranians who have been known sponsors of terror and particular IMN. We have refused to sit and fold our arms while these harbingers of terror sneak in seeds of discord amongst our religious tolerant Southerners where all religions wine and dine under the same roof.”