Why we attacked Zakzaky, other Shiite members – Nigerian Army
The Nigerian Army on Saturday stated its
reason for attacking members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria.
Source:PTNG
Follow us on Twitter
Like our page on Facebook
The Army had on Saturday said the group
blocked the road and attempted to kill the Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai,
in Kaduna State.
In a statement on Sunday by its spokesperson,
Sani Usman, the Army described the incident as ‘most unfortunate’ but blamed
the sect for blocking roads meant for the public.
“Yesterday’s incident involving clashes
between detachments of the Nigerian Army, accompanying the Chief of Army Staff
Lieutenant General TY Buratai and followers of Sheikh Ibrahim El Zak-Zaky,
suspected to be members of the Shiite Sect in Zaria, leading to loss of lives
as a result of the Shiite group members’ blocking roads and not allowing other
passers-by to go about their lawful businesses and activities, was most
unfortunate,” Mr. Usman, a Colonel, said.
“The Nigerian Constitution guarantees the
rights of any group of persons and Sheikh El Zak Zaky’s followers to hold a
peaceful march or procession unhindered, but it also guarantees other people’s
rights of way on public highways. It is important to note that over the years
this group has subjected ordinary citizens using public roads to untold
hardship, delays, threats and disruption simply because they insist on using
public space irrespective of inconvenience and hardship on other law abiding
citizens and motorists.
This cannot
be tolerated and must stop!
“As soon as order is restored to the
situation in Zaria city and its environs, the police will conduct an enquiry
and the public will be informed.
“In the meantime, the public is advised to go
about their lawful business and report any suspicious persons or incidents to
the police,” the Nigerian Army said.
Mr. Usman did not give details of the various
attacks or whether Mr. Zakzaky had been arrested or not.
The Islamic Movement has said its members
were unarmed and that soldiers attacked its members in three different parts of
Kaduna including Mr. Zakzaky’s home.
The Shiite group said the son and wife of Mr.
Zakzaky were among ‘hundreds’ of its members killed by the soldiers.
Source:PTNG
Follow us on Twitter
Like our page on Facebook
