A decade after the violent confrontation between soldiers and members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) in Zaria, the group’s leader, Sheikh Ibraheem El-Zakzaky, has said that former President Muhammadu Buhari will answer before God for the actions taken under his administration.

El-Zakzaky made the remark during a recent address marking ten years since the 2015 incident, which began as what many described as a minor disagreement between IMN members and Nigerian soldiers but escalated into a deadly clash.

The confrontation led to widespread condemnation, mass arrests, and eventually the proscription of IMN by the federal government.According to El-Zakzaky, the Buhari administration bore responsibility for decisions that resulted in the deaths of many IMN members and the subsequent ban on the movement.

“No matter how long it takes, there will be a day of judgement,” he said, adding that accountability would not be limited to earthly institutions.

The 2015 clash remains one of the most controversial security incidents in Nigeria’s recent history, drawing criticism from local and international human rights groups over the conduct of security forces and the treatment of IMN members in detention.

El-Zakzaky, who spent years in government custody following the incident, said the anniversary serves as a reminder of the lives lost and the need for justice.

He reiterated his stance that the movement is peaceful and criticised the continued restrictions placed on its activities.

The former president has not publicly responded to El-Zakzaky’s latest comments. The federal government has consistently defended its decisions regarding the IMN, citing concerns over public order and national security.

As the tenth anniversary passes, the clash continues to shape discussions around religious freedom, state power, and accountability in Nigeria.