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Leader of the Shi’ite Islamic sect, Sheikh Ibrahim El-Zakzaky, was yesterday remanded in prison custody by a chief magistrate.
He was arraigned at the Chief Magistrates’ Court 1, Zaria Road, Kaduna, and charged with criminal conspiracy and inciting public disturbances.
Some of his supporters were arraigned with him.
Police spokesperson Olabisi Kolawole confirmed the arraignment and remand of the Shi’ite leader.
She said: “The Shi’ite leader has been arraigned at a magistrates’ court and charged with criminal conspiracy, inciting public disturbances, among others. He has been remanded in prison custody and the case adjourned.”
The Shi’ite leader was arrested after his members blocked the path of the Chief of Army Staff in Zaria, leading to a clash with soldiers. Many sect members were killed.
Army Chief Lt.-Gen Tukur Buratai said last week that he was no longer in the custody of the army, but with the agency of government responsible for prosecution of suspects.
Inspector General of Police Solomon Arase confirmed that the Islamic leader was with them.
•Excerpted from The Nation. Photo shows El-Zakzaky after his arrest by soldiers.
