Members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) otherwise known as
Shi’ite, Monday clashed with officers of the Nigerian Police during a
protest in Abuja.
The Shiites protest began at the Nitel junction and marched towards the
secretariat.
The protest, however, turned violent as government vehicles owned by the
emergency management agency were burnt by the aggrieved protesters.
The protest was staged two weeks after the Shiites protested to the
National Assembly Complex, Abuja.
Two protesters were killed and two police officers injured during the
previous protest.
The Shiites protesters are calling on the Nigerian government to release
their leader El-Zakzaki, who has been in detention since 2015.
But Presidency of Nigeria Friday, July 19 said the case involving the
leader of the Shiites, Ibrahim El Zakzaky, is no longer in the hands of
the Federal Government.
“As far as this country’s Ministry of Justice is concerned, the case
involving El-Zakzaky is no longer in its domain,” President Muhammadu
Buhari spokesman, Garba Shehu said.
“The Federal Government no more has hands in the matter and to that
extent, the government at the centre can be said to be clear of any
alleged violations of court orders as being trumpeted every day.”
Meanwhile, the police said they are currently bringing the situation
under control, according to a statement signed by Force Spokesman, Frank
Mba.
Mba said, “There is a violent protest currently ongoing by members of
the El-Zakzakky Group in some parts of the FCT – particularly the
Central Business District and the Three Arms Zone. The Police are taking
adequate measures to bring the situation under control.
“Citizens are advised to remain calm and avoid the affected areas in the
interim. The Police will keep the public abreast with further
development.