Islamic Movement in Nigeria Peacefully Marks the 8th Anniversary of Zaria Tragedy

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

The Islamic Movement in Nigeria recently observed the 8th Annual Commemoration of the Zaria incident under the leadership of Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky.

The event, themed “The Site of Memory: An Ardent Resistance of our Fallen Heroes,” aimed to remember and honor those affected by the tragic incident that occurred eight years ago.

Speaking during the commemoration, a member of the Islamic Movement, Ali Baba, emphasized that the event’s purpose was not linked to insecurity but rather aimed at educating the public about the harmful effects of injustice, and exploitation.

He stressed the importance of addressing injustice to eliminate the root causes of insecurity in society.

Ali Baba also called on the government to investigate past atrocities and ensure justice for all victims, irrespective of their background.

This plea was echoed by a survivor of the Zaria incident, Jummai Karofi, who shared her traumatic experience and called for accountability.

Karofi, a mother of nine, recounted the loss of five children during the Zaria Massacre, highlighting the indiscriminate violence that took place.

She said, “ I’m a mother of nine. I lost five in the Zaria Masakabut three were my biological children and two are adopted, but I have gave birth to nine children, one died naturally and then three were shot dead in Zaria.

“ One of my children is carrying a bullet in his chest right now, my first one and I also have been injured as you can see, I had to be helped up and then down the stage because of the bullet that I’m carrying on my back.

“ They were not choosing who to shoot. I don’t know why they did what they did. There was no reason for it at all. This is a result of what happened to us. You know When injustice is served to a person and the rest keep quiet. It comes to them as well.” she lamented.

In response to a question about her message to the government, Jummai expressed her frustration with ongoing violence and called for an end to unjust actions.