Shiites
US expresses concern over killing of group members by police
The clash, which occurred during a march by the group, left many Shiites dead and several others missing.
The United States has expressed concern over the recent clash between Nigerian police officers and Shiite Muslims in Kano State on November 14.
The clash, which occurred during a march by the group, left many Shiites dead and several others missing.
The US made its comments via a statement. It reads:
“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.
“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.”
Meanwhile, the Inspector General of Police, Idris Ibrahim explained, after the attack, that his men were forced to retaliate after the Shiites killed a police officer.
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Ibrahim
also said that police officers were obligated to stop the Shiite
procession because members of the group were armed to the teeth.
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