Shiites accuse security forces of killing 5 members during procession in Abuja
The members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria, IMN, has accused the Nigerian Army of killing at least five of its members during the annual celebration of International Quds Day.
It was gathered that the day is designated by Imam Khomeini (QS) as a day of significance in solidarity with the oppressed people of the world, particularly the Palestinians.
A statement issued by Sidi Munir on behalf of the movement said the organisation under the leadership of Sheikh Ibraheem El-Zakzaky has been observing the global ceremony for the past 40 years in Nigeria.
The statement partly reads, “We wish to draw the attention of the general public to the fact that a team of the Nigerian Army [the Guard Brigade] attacked the procession using live ammunition. Many sustained gunshot life-threatening injuries, and some lost their lives as a result of the brutality.
“There was no form of provocation from the participants warranting the brutality. In fact, they were marching peacefully from a mosque in Banex Plaza, where they observed the juma’at prayer heading to Wuse Market; then the army blocked the way with an armoured vehicle and started shooting at the participants, mostly women and minors.
He said the incident is the latest in a series of similar events, where security forces “have been abusing their power by targeting innocent civilians who are exercising their legal rights”.
“As at the time of writing this article, we could not confirm the exact number of those killed, injured and arrested; however, from the information we reliably obtained from eyewitnesses, the figure of those killed is around 5 people or thereabouts. Nevertheless, we will update the public in due course.
“We call on relevant authorities to investigate this incident and ensure that the rights of citizens are protected. The freedom to peaceful assembly is an inalienable constitutional right that must not be violated,” Mr Munir added.
