PRESS RELEASE –

Nigerian security forces will answer in the Federal High Court tomorrow why they are not returning the passports of the recently freed leader of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, Sheikh Ibrahim el-Zakzaky and his wife Mallimah Zeenah.

Since the pair were released in July after being detained illegally for almost six years, Nigerian authorities have refused to return the pair’s passports preventing them from travelling abroad for medical treatment.

Sheikh Zakzaky suffers from serious ailments arising from gunshot wounds sustained in an attack by security forces on his home in 2015, for which treatment is not available in Nigeria.

The couple were released without condition last July following a lengthy court battle but have fought an unsuccessful battle to have the passports restored to their possession.

Their lawyers argue that the withholding of their passports amounts to placing restrictions on their freedom of movement which is guaranteed by the country’s constitution.

For more information or comment please contact the Press Office on (+44) 7958522196[ENDS]

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IHRC is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.
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