Shiites and security agents clash in Kaduna, killing seven and injuring scores

By Adeleye Kunle

On Monday, seven people were reportedly killed and 40 were injured in a clash between the Islamic Movement of Nigeria and security agents.
According to Track News, IMN issued a brief statement stating that the incident occurred during the group’s Ashura mourning procession in Zaria, Kaduna.

The IMN stated that they were taking part in a peaceful procession across Nigeria and other parts of the world when they were attacked by security agents.

“Security forces have gunned down at least seven followers of Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky (H) today, Monday, and injured over 40 others during the Ashura mourning procession in Zaria, which was observed peacefully across Nigeria and different parts of the world,” according to the statement.

“Today, we came out to commemorate the day of Ashura,” said Aiyu Umar, a leader of the IMN who led the procession in Kaduna.

“The significance of the day is that it is a day of seeking justice, as Imam Hussein did.” We use this date to remind people that today is the day of justice, and they should follow in the footsteps of Imam Hussein in seeking justice.”

According to Track News, Abdulhamid Bello, the movement’s leader in Zaria, claimed that a combined team of security operatives shot indiscriminately at the members.

Jafar Jushi, Kazeem Magume, Ali Samaru, Muhsin Zakzaky, Umar Fatika, and another member who Bello could not identify were among those killed.

He went on to say that the total number of casualties was still unknown, but that many of them had been rushed to St Luke’s Hospital in Wusasa, while those in critical condition were taken to ABU Teaching Hospital in Shika l, also in Zaria.

In an interview, Mohammed Jalinge, the Police Public Relations Officer, stated that he was unaware of the incident and had not been informed.