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Members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), otherwise known as Shiites have announced a temporary suspension of their protests against the continued detention of their leader, Sheikh Ibrahim El-Zakzaky.
A statement by its Spokesman, Ibrahim Musa, disclosed that the movement suspended the protests in good faith and out of respect for eminent Nigerians and groups, whose input in the resolution of the crisis appears genuine.
While restating IMN’s demand for the freedom of their leader, his wife and others in detention since 2015, Musa said the movement was committed to exploring alternative means of resolving the lingering issues with the Federal Government.
“If at all any protests occur anywhere in the country, it might be that this notice hasn’t reached those in the field or this message is misunderstood or some security agents are mischievously behind it.
“This is because they have been doing so in an attempt to smear our image just so that we can be seen as unruly people rather than victims of savage oppression since 2015.
“The Islamic Movement in Nigeria do hereby announce to members of the public and the international community that it has temporarily suspended its Free El-Zakzaky street protests,” the statement reads.
Musa stated that the decision was to allow for some new openings into the resolution of the problems, especially the court case instituted by its lawyers on Federal Government’s prescription order.
“We sincerely hope an amicable way could be found to resolve the crisis emanating from the illegal detention of our leader for almost four years now.
“The IMN wishes to thank both national and international civil rights activists and organisations who have been busy demanding the protection of our fundamental human rights as enshrined in the nation’s constitution.
“We also thank national and international press and social media activists for the full coverage of our activities throughout our struggle for justice,” it added.
