A Kaduna State High Court yesterday rejected the bail application of the leader of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), Sheikh Ibrahim El-Zakzaky and his wife.
The bail application, which was premised on the cleric’s health condition, was turned down by the presiding judge, who said there were enough doctors around to take care of El-Zakzaky’s health needs, should the need arise.
The State Prosecutor Dari Bayero addressed reporters after the proceedings.
The court adjourned the matter till 22 January for what it called “speedy trial” of the Islamic cleric and three others.
El-Zakzaky and the other accused are facing a five-count charge.
The Islamic cleric pleaded not guilty to the charges.
One of his lawyers, Haruna Magashi, told reporters that the counsel would study the court ruling on the bail application to determine the next line of action.
Also, IMN’s Media Forum President Ibrahim Musa said: “We are disappointed with the court’s decision because it should have considered his failing health.
“Secondly, it shows that the government is not ready to listen to us, well-meaning Nigerians and the international community that our leader should be set free, as ordered by another Federal High Court. Therefore, we will keep on with our protests in Abuja and other cities, in shaa Allah.”
El-Zakzaky and his wife, Malama Zeenah Ibrahim, were brought to court in the morning amid tight security.
The major routes to the court were barricaded with vehicles and other objects to restrict movement.
The Islamic leader and his wife are to remain in custody till the next adjourned date.