Shi’ites: Address Underlying Issues – HURIWA Sends Warning To Nigerian Police

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has condemned the recent clash between the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), known as Shi’ites, and the Nigeria Police Force in the Wuse district of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

They expressed dismay over the confrontation which led to the deaths of two police officers and left several others injured.

Speaking via a statement issued by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law and ensuring that those responsible for the crime are apprehended, prosecuted and punished.

The organisation asserted that the actions of those involved in the attack on the police must be met with the full weight of the law.

HURIWA, however, warned that the actions of the Nigeria Police Force against Shi’ites members could lead to the emergence of another extremist group similar to Boko Haram.

The group cautioned that the continued extrajudicial killings and persecution of Shi’ite members by the Police and other security agencies could push the group to take up arms in self-defense, which would have devastating consequences for national security.

“In contrast, the IMN, through a statement signed by Sheikh Sidi Munir Mainasara Sokoto, denied responsibility for the violence, claiming that the police attacked their Arbaeen Symbolic Trek, a religious procession, and killed several mourners. The IMN maintained that their procession was peaceful and had been successfully conducted in other locations without incident,” HURIWA recounted

The rights association called on the Nigerian Government to adopt a more diplomatic approach in handling the Shi’ite group, urging for dialogue rather than violent confrontation.

It suggested that the government could direct the IMN to conduct its religious processions in enclosed spaces, such as stadiums, to prevent disruptions to public order while allowing them to exercise their religious rights.

“The government must urgently address the underlying issues driving the conflict with the Shi’ite group and seek peaceful solutions that respect the rights of all citizens,” HURIWA added.