Kaduna, the capital of Kaduna State, was in disarray yesterday, as law enforcement officers endeavoured to disperse members of the banned Islamic Movement of Nigeria, (IMN), popularly known as Shiites, who were conducting a procession in the city center.
The Shiites congregated near the Katsina Road roundabout, along Ahmadu Bello Way, before Police intervention was initiated to scatter the gathering.
The situation instilled panic and apprehension among residents, particularly those with businesses along Ahmadu Bello Way, prompting many to shut their shops to avoid getting caught up in the commotion.
According to the Kaduna State Police Command spokesperson, ASP Mansir Hassan, the IMN, whose activities have been prohibited by the Federal Government, defied the ban on unauthorised assemblies with yesterday’s gathering.
Hassan stated that the IMN members, armed with dangerous weapons, allegedly launched attacks on innocent residents under the guise of a procession, and further confronted the Police with these weapons when attempts were made to disband them, resulting in injuries to some officers.
The Police spokesperson added that several suspects in possession of dangerous weapons have been apprehended and will face legal action pending the conclusion of investigations.
This incident marks yet another instance of the IMN staging public processions despite their proscription by the Federal Government, a measure implemented during the tenure of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
