Academic Forum of the Islamic Movement, ABU Zaria

ASHURA SERIES

The Gathering Storm: Umar ibn Sa'd and the Army of Kufa

After Imam Husayn (AS), his family, and companions were trapped in Karbala, Ubaydullah ibn Ziyad (LA) appointed Umar ibn Sa'd (LA) to lead an army against Imam Husayn (AS). Historical reports indicate that Umar (LA) initially hesitated, aware of the gravity of confronting the grandson of the Prophet. Nevertheless, he accepted the command in exchange for political and worldly rewards.

Upon arriving at Karbala with a large army, Umar ibn Sa'd (LA) established his camp opposite that of Imam Husayn (AS).

Despite the growing military presence, Imam Husayn (AS) did not seek confrontation. Historical sources record that discussions and exchanges took place between the two camps. The Imam (AS) reiterated his position and sought a peaceful resolution that would avoid bloodshed among Muslims.

Meanwhile, the imbalance between the two sides became increasingly apparent. Imam Husayn refused to pledge allegiance to tyrant Yazid (LA). The Imam's companions were only a small fraction of the forces gathering around them, yet none abandoned him.

The arrival of Umar ibn Sa'd (LA) marked a turning point. What had been a political dispute was becoming a military siege. Each passing day would bring additional troops and harsher measures against the Imam (AS) and his family.

The events that unfolded in Karbala remind us that history is often shaped not only by great leaders but also by the choices of ordinary individuals. Some chose worldly gain, while others chose loyalty despite overwhelming odds.

السَّلَامُ عَلَى الْحُسَيْنِ، وَعَلَى عَلِيِّ بْنِ الْحُسَيْنِ، وَعَلَى أَوْلَادِ الْحُسَيْنِ، وَعَلَى أَصْحَابِ الْحُسَيْنِ. اللَّهُمَّ ارْزُقْنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا زِيَارَةَ الْحُسَيْنِ، وَ فِي الْآخِرَةِ وَشَفَاعَتَةَ الْحُسَيْنِ

✍️ Academic Forum of the Islamic Movement, ABU Zaria

ASHURA SERIES

The Arrival at Karbala: Destiny Meets the Desert

Following the arrival of Imam Husayn ibn Ali (AS) and his small caravan at the plain of Karbala, they were stopped by the forces of Hur ibn Yazid al-Tamimi, who had been ordered to prevent the Imam (AS) from returning to Madinah or proceeding to Kufa. Eventually, the caravan reached a barren stretch of land along the Euphrates.

When Imam Husayn (AS) asked about the name of the place, several names were mentioned. Upon hearing "Karbala," historical reports state that he reflected upon its meaning and recognised it as the place foretold for his final stand.

The Imam (AS) ordered the tents to be pitched there. At this point, there was still no battle. Negotiation remained possible. Imam Husayn (AS) had not initiated hostilities, nor had he declared war against anyone. His concern remained the welfare of the Muslim community and the preservation of the principles taught by his grandfather, the Prophet Muhammad (SAWA).

The camp consisted not only of fighting men but also women, children, and elderly family members, including Lady Zaynab (AS), Umm Kulthum (AS), Imam Ali Zaynul Abideen (AS), and many young members of the Prophet's household.

The arrival at Karbala transformed an uncertain journey into a fixed destiny. The caravan would never leave this place except through martyrdom or captivity.

Today, Karbala stands as a reminder that some moments in history transcend geography. A barren desert became a symbol of steadfastness because a small group chose principle over compromise.

السَّلَامُ عَلَى الْحُسَيْنِ، وَعَلَى عَلِيِّ بْنِ الْحُسَيْنِ، وَعَلَى أَوْلَادِ الْحُسَيْنِ، وَعَلَى أَصْحَابِ الْحُسَيْنِ. اللَّهُمَّ ارْزُقْنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا زِيَارَةَ الْحُسَيْنِ، وَ فِي الْآخِرَةِ وَشَفَاعَتَةَ الْحُسَيْنِ

✍🏼 Academic Forum of the Islamic Movement, ABU Zaria

ASHURA SERIES

A New Year, A Looming Tragedy: The Beginning of the Final Journey

The first day of Muharram marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year. For Muslims across the world, it is a sacred month described by Allah as one of the four inviolable months:

"Indeed, the number of months with Allah is twelve... of these, four are sacred." (Qur'an 9:36).

The Prophet Muhammad (SAWA) also described Muharram as a sacred month and encouraged devotion in it.

Yet, in the year 61 AH, the arrival of Muharram carried a significance unlike any before it. The Muslim Ummah stood at a critical moment in its history. Mu'awiyah ibn Abi Sufyan (LA) had died, and his son, Yazid (LA), had assumed power. Unlike previous caliphs, Yazid (LA) demanded immediate allegiance from leading figures of the Muslim community, foremost among them Imam Husayn ibn Ali (AS), the beloved grandson of the Prophet.

Months before Muharram began, Imam Husayn (AS) had already left Madinah for Makkah, refusing to pledge allegiance to a ruler whom he considered unjust. During his stay in Makkah, thousands of letters reached him from the people of Kufa, a city in Iraq, inviting him to lead them against Umayyad rule.

The Imam dispatched his cousin, Muslim ibn Aqil, to assess the situation. Initially, Muslim received overwhelming support and instructed Imam Husayn (AS) to come over, but the appointment of Ubaydullah ibn Ziyad (LA) as governor of Kufa changed everything. Through intimidation and force, he dispersed Muslim's supporters, eventually leading to the martyrdom of Muslim ibn Aqil (AS) and his host, Hani ibn Urwah (AS).

As Muharram began, Imam Husayn (AS) was already travelling toward Iraq, accompanied by his family and loyal companions. Although many of those with him knew the dangers ahead, they chose to remain by his side.

Thus, the first day of Muharram is not merely the beginning of a calendar month. It marks the opening chapter of one of the most significant episodes in Islamic history—a journey that would culminate at Karbala and leave an enduring legacy of faith, justice, and sacrifices.

In this series, we shall follow the caravan as it reaches the land destined to become one of the most sacred places in Islamic history: Karbala.

السَّلَامُ عَلَى الْحُسَيْنِ، وَعَلَى عَلِيِّ بْنِ الْحُسَيْنِ، وَعَلَى أَوْلَادِ الْحُسَيْنِ، وَعَلَى أَصْحَابِ الْحُسَيْنِ. اللَّهُمَّ ارْزُقْنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا زِيَارَةَ الْحُسَيْنِ، وَ فِي الْآخِرَةِ وَشَفَاعَتَةَ الْحُسَيْنِ.

✍🏼 Academic Forum of the Islamic Movement, ABU Zaria

OFFICIAL INVITATION

The Academic Forum of the Islamic Movement, under the leadership of Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky (H), cordially invites the general public to the upcoming National Ijtima, scheduled as follows.

Date: Sunday, 5th April, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM
Venue: Zaria

All members of the Academic Forum, brothers and sisters, are highly encouraged to attend.

We look forward to your presence.

EID AL-FITR: A CELEBRATION AMID GRIEF, RESISTANCE, AND HOPE

As the blessed month of Ramadan comes to an end, Muslims across the world welcome Eid al-Fitr with hearts filled with gratitude, renewed faith, and spiritual fulfillment. Ramadan has been a season of sacrifice, discipline, and devotion. It is a time that nurtures patience, compassion, and unwavering submission to the will of Allah.

Yet, this year’s Eid arrives not only as a moment of celebration, but also as a period of deep reflection and collective grief. The Muslim Ummah commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Sayyid Ali Khamenei (R), who was assassinated in a series of coordinated attacks by the United States and Israel. His martyrdom, widely condemned as a violation of international law and state sovereignty, represents a turning point in contemporary global politics and a profound loss to millions of Muslims worldwide who viewed him as a symbol of resistance and leadership.

We also remember Mr. Ali Larijani (R), other senior figures of Iran, and all the martyrs who lost their lives in the same wave of violence, further deepening the wounds inflicted upon a sovereign nation and its people. These targeted assassinations underscore a troubling pattern of aggression that continues to destabilize the region.

In the face of these developments, we strongly condemn the war on Iran and Lebanon, as well as all forms of oppression against innocent civilians across the globe. The deliberate targeting of leadership, infrastructure, and civilian populations stands in direct contradiction to the principles of justice, humanity, and international law.

At the same time, we acknowledge the emergence of Imam Sayyid Mojtaba Khamenei (H) as the new supreme leader of the Islamic Revolution. We ask Allah to protect him, and pray that his leadership will be guided by wisdom, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to justice, unity, and the protection of the oppressed people during this critical period.

Closer to home, the recent attacks in Borno State and other parts of Nigeria serve as a painful reminder that insecurity and violence remain urgent challenges. The loss of innocent lives is unacceptable, and it calls for renewed commitment from all stakeholders toward restoring peace, stability, and justice.

This year's Eid al-Fitr therefore becomes more than a celebration. It is a declaration of faith, a reaffirmation of justice, and a call to conscience. It reminds us that while we rejoice, we must not forget those who suffer; while we celebrate, we must stand firm against oppression; and while we gather in peace, we must pray for those living in fear.

As we mark this blessed occasion, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to the entire Muslim Ummah. May Allah accept our fasting, prayers, and acts of charity. May He grant mercy to the martyrs, healing to the wounded, and patience to those who grieve.

Above all, we pray for peace, justice, and ultimate victory for the oppressed over the oppressors.

Eid Mubarak.

Academic Forum of the Islamic Movement, ABU Zaria
1st Shawwal, 1447 AH - 20th March, 2026

We are approaching the blessed days of the 13th, 14th, and 15th of the month of Rajab.

It is highly desirable to observe fast these three days.

The following is narrated from
Imam As-Sadiq (AS):

"God would record the fasting and staying up at night of one year for whoever fasts during the thirteenth, fourteenth and fifteenth days of Rajab. He would stand in the position of those who are secure on the Resurrection Day."

It is recommended to have a ghusl/bath each day, and give alms in the way of Allah (SWT). May Allah (SWT) accept our prayers, fasting, charity, and deeds on these blessed days and nights.

Imam Ali al-Hadi (AS): A Beacon of Divine Guidance under Abbasid Oppression

Imam Ali ibn Muhammad al-Hadi (AS), the tenth Imam of the Ahlul Bayt (AS), stands as one of the most resilient and intellectually profound leaders in Islamic history. Born on the 15th of Dhu al-Hijjah, 212 AH, in Madinah, Imam al-Hadi (AS) inherited the mantle of Imamate at a remarkably young age following the martyrdom of his father, Imam Muhammad al-Jawad (AS). His life unfolded during a dark era marked by intense political repression, surveillance, and systematic attempts to silence the voice of divine leadership.

Despite the suffocating atmosphere of the Abbasid regime, Imam al-Hadi (AS) emerged as a towering spiritual and intellectual authority. He was renowned for his deep knowledge of Qur’anic sciences, jurisprudence, theology, ethics, and supplications. Scholars, jurists, and seekers of truth—both Shi‘a and Sunni—acknowledged his superiority in knowledge and piety.

Imam al-Hadi (AS) played a decisive role in preserving the authentic teachings of Islam at a time when political interests sought to manipulate religion for legitimacy. He strengthened the wikālah (network of trusted representatives), ensuring that guidance reached the Muslim community across distant regions despite his enforced isolation. Through letters, emissaries, and carefully structured instruction, he safeguarded the continuity of the Imamate and prepared the Ummah for the later period of occultation.

The Abbasid caliphs—particularly al-Mutawakkil—viewed Imam al-Hadi (AS) as a grave threat to their authority. His moral influence, popularity, and spiritual legitimacy unsettled a regime built on fear and coercion. Consequently, the Imam was forcibly relocated from Madinah to Samarra, where he lived under constant surveillance and house arrest.

Despite repeated harassment, confiscation of property, and attempts to implicate him falsely, Imam al-Hadi (AS) never compromised his principles. His resistance was not armed but intellectual and spiritual—rooted in truth, patience, and unwavering trust in Allah. Even his enemies testified to his dignity, asceticism, and impeccable character.

On the 3rd of Rajab, 254 AH, Imam Ali al-Hadi (AS) was poisoned and martyred in Samarra by the Abbasid authorities. He was buried in the same house where he lived in captivity—a site that later became one of the most revered shrines in the Islamic world, alongside his son and successor, Imam Hasan al-Askari (AS).

The martyrdom of Imam al-Hadi (AS) was not the end of his mission but the sealing of a legacy that continues to illuminate hearts. His life exemplifies steadfastness under oppression, leadership without compromise, and faith anchored in knowledge and patience. He laid critical foundations for the survival of Islamic thought during one of its most perilous periods.

Imam Ali al-Hadi (AS) remains a timeless model especially for the youth and all who seek to uphold truth in the face of tyranny. His life teaches that genuine leadership does not depend on political power but on moral authority, divine knowledge, and unwavering commitment to justice.

Peace and blessings be upon Imam Ali al-Hadi (AS) — on the day he was born, the day he was martyred, and the day he shall be raised alive.

✍🏼 Academic Forum of the Islamic Movement, ABU Zaria

Heartfelt congratulations to all believers, and joyous felicitations to the Imam of our time, Imam Mahdi (ATF), on this blessed and radiant occasion — the birth anniversary of the Splitter of Knowledge, Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (AS), the Fifth Light of Divine Guidance.

Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (peace be upon him), who stands as a monumental figure in Islamic intellectual and spiritual history, was born on the 1st of Rajab, 57 AH, in the sacred city of Madinah. Living at a critical transitional period, he laid the foundations for the systematic preservation, articulation, and dissemination of the authentic teachings of the Holy Prophet (ﷺ) and the Ahlul Bayt (AS). His title al-Baqir—“the one who splits open knowledge”—reflects his unmatched depth in unveiling the inner and outer dimensions of divine wisdom.

Through his scholarship, moral excellence, and unwavering commitment to truth, Imam al-Baqir (AS) revived the prophetic legacy at a time when distortion and political oppression threatened the purity of Islam. He nurtured a generation of scholars and prepared the intellectual ground upon which his son, Imam Ja‘far al-Sadiq (AS), would further establish the great school of Ahlul Bayt.

On this auspicious day, we renew our pledge to uphold the values he embodied: knowledge with humility, faith with reason, and resistance to injustice with wisdom and patience. May his life inspire us to pursue learning, uphold justice, and walk steadfastly on the path of divine guidance.

May Allah hasten the reappearance of Imam Mahdi (ATF), include us among the sincere followers of the Ahlul Bayt (AS), and grant us the ability to translate their teachings into our personal lives and societies.

🌺 Peace and blessings be upon Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (AS), on his birth anniversary and always. 🌺

✍🏼 Academic Forum of the Islamic Movement, ABU Zaria

BRIEF HISTORY OF THE ISLAMIC MOVEMENT, ITS GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

By
Professor Abdullahi Danladi
Resource Forum
Islamic Movement

Paper Presented at the Jaishu Shaheed Ahmad Zakzaky Conference
on the Occasion of his Birthday
Abuja- Nigeria
11th October, 2025

Abstract

The Islamic Movement represents one of the most significant religious and intellectual awakenings in contemporary Nigerian history. Emerging as a divine duty to return to the teachings of Islam in totality, response to political oppression, moral decay, and spiritual stagnation, it has evolved into a vibrant socio-religious force guided by Islamic principles and a vision of justice, unity, and divine governance. This paper traces the historical development of the Islamic Movement, outlines its ideological foundation, and examines its goals and objectives, particularly as embodied in the leadership and teachings of his eminence Shaikh Ibraheem Zakzaky (H). The study emphasizes the Movement’s mission of building a just, God-conscious society and nurturing a generation that embodies the values of sacrifice, knowledge, and resistance to oppression.
Keywords
Islamic Movement, Nigeria, Zakzaky, Justice, Martyrdom, Knowledge, Unity, Resistance, Jaishu Shaheed Ahmad Zakzaky.

1. Introduction
Every era witnesses the rise of movements that challenge falsehood, awaken conscience, and restore the dignity of man. In the contemporary Nigerian landscape, the Islamic Movement has emerged as one such divinely inspired phenomenon which is a call to faith, knowledge, and justice.
At a time when corruption, inequality, and moral decline pervaded society, this Movement appeared as a moral and spiritual renaissance, rooted in the Qur’an, the Sunnah, and the revolutionary legacy of Islam’s struggle against tyranny. It is a Movement not for power or wealth, but for the restoration of Allah’s sovereignty, establishment of truth (Haqq) and the liberation of the oppressed.

2. Historical Background of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria
The origins of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria can be traced to the late 1970s and early 1980s, a period marked by ideological ferment among Nigerian university students. This was also the era of global Islamic awakening inspired by the victory of the Islamic Revolution in Iran (1979), a triumph that demonstrated the power of faith to overthrow tyranny and re-establish divine sovereignty in human affairs.
Among the Muslim students at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky emerged as a leading voice calling for the revival of Islam as a complete way of life. His message resonated deeply with youths disillusioned by the failures of secularism, neocolonialism, and materialism. By 1980, what began as an intellectual and moral campaign among students and youth had blossomed into a nationwide Islamic Movement, united by the call for the restoration of Islamic values, self-reliance, and resistance to oppression.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, the Movement grew across towns and villages, establishing study circles, schools, mosques, community projects, and social welfare programs. It encouraged Muslims to study Islam deeply, practice it sincerely, and challenge corrupt systems that oppressed the poor.Despite repeated attempts by successive governments to suppress it, including mass arrests, assassinations, and massacres, the Movement endured, guided by the patience and wisdom of the uncompromising leader, Sheikh Zakzaky (H). The 2015 Zaria Massacre, where thousands of followers were brutally killed and the revered leader and his wife were imprisoned, remains a tragic testimony to the Movement’s long-standing persecution. Yet, as history shows, every drop of martyr’s blood has only strengthened the resolve of the Movement, hence the apt commemoration of Jaishu Shaheed Ahmad Zakzaky, the army of martyrs who sacrificed their lives for truth.

3. Ideological Foundation
The Islamic Movement’s ideology is deeply rooted in Tawhid (the Oneness of God), which establishes that all sovereignty belongs to Allah alone. From this flows the Movement’s rejection of oppression, corruption, and secular systems that alienate man from divine justice.
It advocates the unity of Muslims, the establishment of a society governed by Islamic ethics, and the defense of the oppressed, wherever they may be. Sheikh Zakzaky has consistently emphasized that Islam is not a religion confined to rituals, but a comprehensive system of life that includes governance, economy, education, and morality which are all guided by divine law.

4. Goals and Objectives of the Islamic Movement
The goals and objectives of the Islamic Movement are broad, yet interconnected. They can be categorized into spiritual, educational, social, and political dimensions.
(a) Spiritual and Moral Reformation: The Movement seeks to reform the human soul, nurturing Taqwa (God-consciousness) and moral discipline.
(b) Knowledge and Enlightenment: The Movement invests in