The Islamic Movement of Nigeria, also known as the Nigerian Muslim Brothers, will commence its annual Arbaeen symbolic trek today. This event is a religious commitment that urges both Muslims and non-Muslims to resist tyrannical rule and oppressive leaders.
Malam Ahmad Yusuf Yashi, the Bauchi State representative of the Islamic Movement, highlighted the significance of the annual rite, emphasizing that it impacts Muslims worldwide. The Arbaeen Trek, observed on the 20th of Safar in the Islamic calendar, commemorates the 40th day after the martyrdom of Imam Hussein ibn Ali, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed on the 10th of Muharram.
Speaking to journalists on Tuesday, Yashi explained that the Pambegua axis of the event involves participants from five states—Bauchi, Adamawa, Taraba, Nasarawa, and Plateau—who will trek to Zaria in Kaduna State.
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“This event is not limited to Shi’ite Muslims; it affects everyone because the Holy Prophet belongs to all,” Yashi stated. He emphasized that the commemoration of Imam Hussein’s martyrdom is a shared grievance that should unite all Muslims and urged broader participation in the symbolic trek across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
Yashi also underscored the event’s broader significance, noting that it serves as a powerful statement against tyranny and division, a message he believes should resonate with the entire human population, not just the Muslim community.
Recalling the origins of the Iranian revolution, Yashi pointed out that it began with the Ashura commemoration, urging people to learn from this historical event. He clarified that the symbolic trek in Nigeria is a peaceful Islamic cultural practice, not a violent procession, and should be viewed as a religious expression akin to prayer.
Yashi concluded by acknowledging the economic constraints that prevent some from participating in the trek in Iraq, where the event holds particular significance. Instead, the movement organizes treks across Nigeria, categorizing the country into seven axes, including Kano, Malumfashi/Katsina, Funtua, Kaduna, and Pambegua.
The Arbaeen Trek, observed annually for many years, is conducted 40 days after the assassination of Imam Hussein, who was killed on the 10th of Muharram, 61 years after the death of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
