In what appears like another controversy arising from the Shiites/Army clash in Zaria in Kaduna State, the Islamic Republic of Iran has recalled its ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Saheed Kozechi.
Although no reason was given by the country’s External Affairs Ministry, a very reliable source has informed DAILY POST that Kozechi was recalled to avert litigation over the brewing diplomatic row between Iran and Nigeria regarding the former ambassador’s unguarded utterances, which went as far as threatening Nigeria and the Federal Government.
DAILY POST gathered that Kozechi was indicted in the National Human Right Report and Kaduna State Judicial Commission of Inquiry which were yet to be made public.
A top diplomatic source Wednesday night who pleaded anonymity told our correspondent that the country withdrew Mr Kozechi “to avoid litigation filed against the country and the ambassador in Nigeria and other international fora from ECOWAS Court to ICC.”
The source said: “The Iranian former Ambassador got some influential Nigerians to ensure he was still able to say his official farewell at the Presidential Villa yesterday,” the source said.
It is recalled that some Civil Society Groups took Kozechi to task over his vituperative utterances and stoking the embers of religious extremism which they argued, could lead to another round of terrorism by the Islamic Movement of Nigeria.
Attempt to reach the outgoing Ambassador for his reaction was unsuccessful while a lady who identified herself as a Personal Assistant disclosed to our correspondent that there is a standing instruction for any one speaking on any issue to confirm from the Iranian External Affairs Minister as to avoid any unhealthy relationship with Nigeria.
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