A Zaria-based NGO, Peace Initiative Forum, on Thursday said Gyallesu area and Zazzau Emirate were now “safe and conducive” without Sheik Ibrahim El-zakzaky.

The Coordinator of the forum, Malam Mu’izzu Daruddeen, told newsmen in Zaria that the ancient city and its environs had recorded “sudden positive change” in its day-to-day activities.

Daruddeen was reacting to the change in life pattern of people after the recent clash between the Nigerian Army and members of Shi’ite sect in Zaria, Kaduna State

He said: “As peace loving organisation and patriotic citizens of this nation, we are in support of anything that will promote peace, unity and harmonious relationship among people.

“Every resident of Zaria is affected directly or indirectly by the self-acclaimed powers and disregard for traffic rules by the Shi’ite members in Zaria, especially when it comes to the use of public roads.

“These Shi’ite members consider any other person as a second class citizen who has no rights and privileges.”

Daruddeen said whenever the leader of the Shi’ite was going for preaching, he would be escorted by youths bearing dangerous weapons.

“These boys traumatised and brutally dealt with anybody while El-zakzaky was on transit. Complaints to police at different times did not yield any result,” he said.

A community leader in Gyallesu, who pleaded for anonymity, expressed appreciation for the steps taken to liberate the entire community and the Zazzau Emirate.

“I am from Gyallesu area, before now we lived just like prisoners who have no right to live a life worthy of human living,” he said.

According to him, it is not only Gyallesu community that is happy about what happened but the entire people of Zazzau emirate.

He said: “When El-zakzaky was in Gyallesu, the area became a home to all kinds of criminals because his boys did not allow uniform personnel into the area, no matter the level of crime committed.

“These boys used to search anybody that is coming into the area irrespective of his or her status.

“Again, once they lock up the gates at night you have no right to go out for whatever reason. The kind of loyalty these boys accorded El-zakzaky was second to none.

“They see him as a messiah. They neither have respect for constitution nor any constituted authority. His instruction is the final.”

He lauded the courage of the Nigerian Army for demolishing El-Zakzaky’s house, saying the action had made Gyallesu residents to breathe a fresh air.

As at the time of filing this report, El-zakzaky’s residence, Hussainiya (El-zakzaky’s Mosque and Shiite headquarters) and Dambo site (Lambun Rahama) had all been demolished.

The entire area is being protected by security personnel.NAN.


Source:www.dailypost.ng