The
United States, U.S, has expressed deep concern over reports of the
deaths of dozens of Nigerians involved in clashes between individuals
participating in a Shia procession and the police in Kano State on
Monday, calling on the Nigerian government to protect and defend the
rights of Shi’ites.
The U.S government, in a statement from its Embassy in Abuja on
Friday, acknowledged that the matter was still being investigated, but
stressed that it was, “troubled by the apparent disproportionate
response by the police,” during the clash.
It said, “This is the latest in a series of violent incidents between
security forces and members of the Shia Islamic Movement of Nigeria
(IMN), some of which have resulted in deaths, destruction of property,
and the arbitrary detention of IMN members.
“The United States calls for calm and restraint on all sides, a
reduction of tensions, and greater communication between Shia citizens
and government authorities.”
While noting that the Shi’ites, like other religious communities,
have the right to assemble, peacefully express their religious beliefs,
and mark their celebrations, the U.S government said it was also
incumbent on members of the religious sect and all Nigerians to respect
the rule of law and cooperate with the police as they attempt to
maintain public order.
“We continue to urge the government to ensure accountability for the
deaths of more than 300 IMN members during December 15, 2015 clashes
between the IMN and security forces in Zaria, Kaduna State.
“We also call on the Nigerian government to conduct a transparent
investigation of the latest incidents and bring to account anyone
responsible for violating the law,” the statement read.
The Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Idris Ibrahim, while reacting to
the incident, explained that the police opened fire on the Shiite
members in self defence, adding that members of the sect were “armed to
teeth.”