Hawzah News Agency (Abuja, Nigeria) - Leader of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria, Sheik Ibrahim El-Zakzaky, has made his first public appearance in over two years.
El-Zakzaky who is in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), told journalists on Saturday in Abuja that he is alive and well.
He also thanked Nigerians for their prayers, as well as the DSS for allowing him access to his doctors.
“It was severe on me on Monday but subsequently it started subsiding and for the first time at least the security allowed me to see my own Doctors.
“So it was my own doctors who examined me. Before I used to be examined by security doctors, this time I did not agree, and my own doctors came to examine me.
“I am getting better, thanks to all your prayers,” the IMN leader said.
This comes after rumors of his death spread on the social media on Friday.
Despite the ruling of a Federal High Court which ordered his unconditional release in 2016, Mr El-Zakzaky and his wife have remained in detention since December 2015.
Their continued detention has sparked several reactions from his supporters, the government and even human rights lawyer, Femi Falana.
Shia members of the IMN group have staged series of processions across the northern states demanding the release of their leaders.
Speaking on the issue, the Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, Mr Lai Muhammad stated earlier that Mr El-Zakzaky was still being held on the grounds of national security.
Also reacting to the issue, Mr Falana in a letter dated November 7 and addressed to the President, demanded the immediate release of El-Zakzaky and his wife since the panel set up to investigate the incident has not recommended that they should be prosecuted indefinitely.
* Text of the conversation with the Sheik El-Zakzaky
Journalist: Good Afternoon sir?
Sheikh Zakzaky: How are you?
Journalist: Can we have a word with you?
Sheikh El-Zakzaky: If they agree and allow me (He says so jokingly)
Journalist: How are you feeling now?
Sheik El-Zakzaky: I am feel better the security (officers) have allowed me to see my doctor, my personal doctor. I thank God. I am improving Journalist: Do you have anything to add.
Sheikh El-Zakzaky: I thank you for all your prayers.
Journalist: Thank you sir.
Sheikh ElZakzaky: Thanks (As he walked away).