By Husaini Yero, Funtua The representative of the Islamic movement in Nigeria under the leadership of Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky, ...
By Husaini Yero, Funtua
The representative of the Islamic movement in Nigeria under the leadership of Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky, Sheikh Sidi Munir Sokoto, has explained the purpose of the movement’s annual Arba’een Symbolic Trek, saying it is rooted in history, sacrifice, and the need for public awareness.
Addressing journalists at a press conference in Funtua on Monday, Sheikh Sidi Munir Sokoto announced that the Funtua-axis trek will commence on Tuesday and proceed peacefully to Zaria without disrupting road users.
“This is not just a march; it is a commemoration,” he said. “We are here to honour the sacrifice of the Prophet Muhammad’s grandson, Imam Husayn (AS), and to explain to the public why we trek.”
The Islamic movement leader explained that the symbolic procession, held annually by members across Nigeria, revives the journey of Jabir ibn Abdullahi al-Ansari—a companion of the Prophet—who famously walked barefoot to pay respects to Imam Husayn after the tragedy of Karbala in 61 AH.
“In that year, the Banu Umayyad dynasty under Yazid ibn Mu’awiyyah martyred Imam Husayn, his family, and companions—73 people in all,” he recounted. “The survivors, including women and children, were taken captive and paraded in chains from Iraq to Syria. Our trek reflects on these events and the lessons they hold for humanity.”
Participants from Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, and Katsina States will join the Funtua trek, carrying placards, sharing printed articles titled Why We Trek, and using the occasion to raise awareness about the injustices of Karbala and the enduring relevance of Imam Husayn’s stand against oppression.
“We have walked this route for over a decade without disrupting the movement of others,” Sheikh Sidi Munir noted. “It is a one-day event, but its message is timeless."
No comments