In a statement, the Islamic Movement of Nigeria announced, “This year, the walk commemorating Arbaeen in Nigeria was the first peaceful walk without tension and conflict by the country’s security bodies since 2015.”
In the statement of Dr. Dauda Nalado, a member of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria, it is stated, “Imam Hussain (a.s.) was martyred in Karbala on the Ashura Day, 10 Muharram 61 AH, corresponding to 10 October 680. One of the purposes of commemorating Arbaeen is to remember the sufferings of the Prophet’s (p.b.u.h) AhlulBayt (a.s.) (household), who were forced to walk from Karbala to Damascus in the scorching heat of the Arabian desert. It was a tragic incident that clearly shows the oppression against the Prophet’s (p.b.u.h) family.”
“Since then, on the Arbaeen anniversary of Imam Hussain (a.s.), Shiites and mourners from different parts of Iraq walk to the Imam's shrine in Karbala. Muslims and non-Muslims from all walks of life and from different parts of the world participate in this journey. Along the Karbala Road, volunteers distribute free food and drink to those taking part in the walk, as well as providing places for rest, hygiene and sleeping,” he added.
“Now, the crowd that participates in the Arbaeen ceremony of Imam Hussain (a.s.) is considered the largest gathering in the world, which is increasing year by year. In response to the call of Imam Mahdi (a.s.), millions of people from different countries, including Nigeria, came to Karbala, and declare their love, sympathy and solidarity with the Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h) and his AhlulBayt (a.s.) on this tragic event (the martyrdom of Imam Hussain),” Nalado expressed.
“The love that the mourners express to the Imam, and the devolution of the Iraqi people towards the mourners and pilgrims, referred to what humanity desperately needs today. Love and sacrifice will lead to peaceful coexistence and the establishment of lasting peace, justice and fairness in all parts of the world. Imam Hussain (a.s.) fought against the oppressive ruler of his time, Yazid bin Muawiya and sacrificed his life. He, along with his family members and 72 of his companions, were surrounded by Ibn Ziyad’s forces and were martyred in the desert of Karbala. They were subjected to psychological torture and were deprived of drinking water for days,” stated Dr. Nalado a member of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria.