Members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), popularly known as Shi’ites, staged a rally in Bauchi on Sunday in support of Iran, urging Muslims to live according to Islamic teachings.
The call was made by Zeenatuddeen Zakzaky, wife of IMN leader Ibraheem Zakzaky, during the 5th International Conference on Islamic Thought themed “The State of Affairs and the Way Out.”
The conference, organised by the Sisters and Academic Fora under Zakzaky’s leadership, focused on reinforcing adherence to the Qur’an and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad.
“Muslims must live their lives according to how Allah enjoined us in the Qur’an and the way the Prophet has brought it to us,” she said, adding that the gathering aimed to remind adherents of their religious responsibilities.
She emphasised that while the movement does not seek to impose Islam on others, it remains essential for Muslims to uphold its teachings.
Commenting on the ongoing tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, she described the conflict as a struggle between “oppressors and the oppressed.”
“I am siding with the axis of resistance against aggression. We know who the aggressors are,” she said.
Speaking after a symbolic rally held alongside the conference, Abdullahi Musa, a follower of Zakzaky, said the demonstration was part of a longstanding effort to show solidarity with Iran and Palestinians.
“We have been coming out for decades to show our solidarity with the oppressed people of Palestine. Many have been killed for this cause, but we continue because it is mandated for all believers to stand against injustice,” he said.
Musa added that the pursuit of justice transcends religious boundaries, urging both Muslims and Christians to defend the oppressed.
“It is mandatory to act against injustice. The purpose of all prophets is to fight for justice,” he said.
He also called on the Nigerian government to take a firmer stance on global injustices, particularly regarding Palestine, and criticised the country’s political system, arguing that systemic issues remain at the root of Nigeria’s challenges.
