Shiite procession
The United States Embassy has reacted to the clash between members
of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria and security operatives in the
Federal Capital Territory, Abuja that resulted in the death of many
people.
The US Embassy issued a statement on Thursday (today), called for restraints from both sides.
The statement read:
“The United States Embassy is concerned by the deaths resulting
from clashes between Nigerian security forces and members of the
Islamic Movement of Nigeria in areas surrounding Abuja. We urge
Government of Nigeria authorities to conduct a thorough investigation
of the events and to take appropriate action to hold accountable those
responsible for violations of Nigerian law. We urge restraint on all
sides.
The crisis first unfolded on Saturday as troops from the Army
Headquarters Garrison at Zuba, Gwagwalada Area Council of the FCT,
reportedly gunned down six followers of the sect. The Army, however,
claimed responsibility for three deaths.
Since the clash at Zuba, there has been heavy security presence
in all the major entry points into the city, in an attempt to restrain
to sect.
The Shiite members kick started their annual Arbaeen symbolic
trek on Sunday, which also served as cover for a protest march against
the continued detention of their spiritual leader by the federal
authorities, with the clashes happening throughout the three days of the
march/protest which led to the loss of many lives.
The Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) said over 5o of its
members lost their lives since Saturday, contrasting the military’s
official death toll of six.”