H.E. President Muhammadu Buhari
President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
Office of the President
Aso Rock, Abuja
Nigeria
Monday 08 January 2018
Dear President Buhari,
I am writing to bring to your attention a matter of the utmost urgency.
Shaykh Ibrahim Zakzaky, his wife Mallima Zeenah Ibrahim and hundreds of members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria have been illegally detained in Nigeria for more than two years since the Zaria massacres in December 2015. Both the Sheikh and his wife are still injured from the shootings and violence that took place two years ago and need treatment.
In the last few days, Shaykh Zakzaky’s health has deteriorated rapidly, and he has been given access to his own doctor who suspects he has had a stroke. The elderly Shaykh has difficulty moving and can only speak while lying down.
Due to the severity of his previous, untreated injuries as well as the complications created by a possible stroke, it is essential the Sheikh receives immediate medical treatment. As the Shaykh’s multiple conditions are severe and complex he may need to seek specialist medical treatment abroad, where experts in his condition can provide the necessary treatment.
Shaykh Zakyzaky has been a passionate advocate for justice and equality in Nigeria and used his significant influence to foster peace in the country for over 30 years.
The continued detention of the Shaykh and his supporters has been an enormous blemish on Nigeria’s reputation in the international community. While this delay has been blamed on various state organs including the security services and the courts, the situation has now become intolerable, and only you can end it. We believe his death in captivity, following a vicious massacre and a drawn-out detention, will undo decades of his work for peace.
Mr President, you are faced with a simple choice, release Shaykh Zakzaky to get the necessary medical treatment or have his blood on your hands.
I hope and pray you will do what is best for Nigeria and order the release of Shaykg Zakzaky Immediately so that he may seek medical attention.Â
I Look forward to your response.Â
Yours sincerely,
Massoud Shadjareh
