The United States and the United Kingdom have expressed concern over reports of violent clashes between members of the Nigerian Army and the Shiite Islamic Movement in Zaria, Kaduna State over the past days.
The US Embassy in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja expressed dismay over the reported killing of many people and called on the Federal Government to probe the incident.
It advised the two sides to exercise restraint to avoid actions that may further destabilize the situation.
“While many details of the incidents that reportedly began on December 12 remain unclear, we are dismayed to learn of multiple civilian deaths. It is essential that all sides refrain from actions that further destabilize the situation.
“The United States calls on the Government of Nigeria to quickly, credibly, and transparently investigate these events in Zaria and hold to account any individuals found to have committed crimes.”
The British High Commissioner, Paul Arkwright in his own statement admonished the security agencies to conduct their operations within the ambit of the rule of law.
He also urged demonstrators to ensure that their protests were peaceful and within the law.
Arkwright said, “Like many across Nigeria, I am following with concern the reports of violence in Zaria over the weekend between the Nigerian security forces and the Islamic Movement of Nigeria. I am further concerned at reports that protests in Kaduna have turned violent.
“Nigeria’s religious and ethnic diversity adds a great deal to this country’s rich culture. It is important, therefore, that Nigerians of all faiths are allowed to assemble and worship freely.
“In addition, I call on the security forces to conduct their operations within the rule of law, and for demonstrators to ensure any protests are peaceful and equally act within the law.” Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everyday
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It is for things like this that the world has no regard for Nigeria. We only shine when it comes to corruption and theft. This poorly trained army should know that their job is not to open fire on civilians. Whoever that ordered this shooting should be dismissed from the army and sent straight to jail. Enough of this primitive behavior and disregard for human right.
ReplyDeleteScary bunch
ReplyDeleteThe Shias are like their own government, fulfilling the needs of their people so the people would follow them to the end and ignore the laws of Nigeria. How can u block a federal road and still stand on ur wrong. Your right stops where another person's own starts. I'm not justifying the killings but I think they saw it coming and they were ready to die for their religion. We can't afford to breed a second boko haram. If u don't obey the law, that makes u a criminal and should be treated as such. I heard the shitte had arms, if that is true, then it means the army did what needed to be done. The probe is important too, let's see how it goes
ReplyDeleteYou zoo animal. We are taking about the killing of many people. You think the world is daft for asking? People like you is why they call us monkeys
Deleteyou are even more of an unruly monkiiiii....
DeleteIf you watch the video you'll know that the Shiite militias were a threat to peace. They were carrying sticks and cutlasses and shouting 'Allah Ku albar'. They refused to let obey and let army chief have a way.
DeleteTheir shouting was so much like boko haram on rampage. I think they saw death coming and stood to get.
Oh nigeria. No wonder people are desperate to leave it.
ReplyDeleteBut wait o who gave the shiite arms?
ReplyDeleteMay God help us.
ReplyDeleteAnonymous 1:33am, na Nigerian Eye give them arms! You for go ask who gave Boko Haram arms too!
ReplyDelete