Leader of Nigeria’s Islamic Movement advocates for inspiration from Iran’s Islamic revolution

Osondu Nwachukwu
2 Min Read

Sheikh Ibrahim Zakzaky, the leader of Nigeria’s Islamic Movement, has advocated drawing inspiration from Iran’s Islamic Revolution, asserting that Africa should look to Iran as a model for ideological guidance. 

Zakzaky, currently in Iran, emphasized the continuation of the Islamic Revolution under the leadership of Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader.

In a recent meeting with Alireza Araafi, director of religious seminaries in Iran, Zakzaky highlighted the enduring impact of the Islamic Revolution and its global influence. 

He emphasized the expansion of the Islamic Movement in regions including Africa, Europe, and North America, mobilizing Shiite communities worldwide.

Often referred to as Nigeria’s Ayatollah, Zakzaky leads the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, a movement deeply inspired by the Iranian Revolution and opposing the Nigerian government’s authority. 

He presently faces imprisonment on various charges, with the government aiming to curb the movement’s revolutionary activities.

During a previous meeting held in October, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei expressed solidarity with Zakzaky, acknowledging the growth of the Islamic Movement in various continents. 

Khamenei’s support extends to Nigeria’s Shiite community and includes recent discussions centred on energy cooperation to address Nigeria’s energy challenges. 

The support is evident in recent energy talks, focusing on cooperation to address energy challenges and seeking the Nigerian government’s collaboration.

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Osodu Nwachukwu is a journalist with nearly a decade of experience in the field. He began his career as a reporter for an evening newspaper before moving on to cover regional news for a larger publication. During his time there, he covered a wide range of stories including the 2015 and 2019 presidential elections. Osondu is a graduate of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism and holds a Post Graduate Diploma from the International Institute of Journalism. In his free time, he enjoys volunteering with organizations that support people with disabilities. Contact: Osondu.Nwachukwu [at] news.ng