The Police Command in Kaduna State has announced a ban on all forms of unlawful gatherings by the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), including its planned Ashura procession.
The command’s spokesperson, ASP Mansir Hassan, made the announcement in a statement issued on Sunday in Kaduna.
Hassan said, “The command has banned every manner of illegal protest in the state.
“This is coming on the heels of intelligence received indicating that the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria, also known as Shi’ite, is planning a procession to mark the 2024 Islamic Ashura Day ceremony.
“It is an undeniable fact that the said ritual practice has in the recent past been characterised by unimaginable violence leading to the destruction of properties, injuries to persons, and even loss of lives.
“It is against this backdrop that the police command is warning the said sect members, who were since proscribed by law, to drop such a procession idea, “he said.
Hassan stated that the command would not hesitate to enforce the full weight of the law on any individual or group, particularly members of the outlawed IMN, who violate the ban.
The Commissioner of Police for Kaduna State, Mr. Ali Dabigi, urged all law-abiding citizens to continue their daily activities without fear.
He emphasized that the hard-earned peace in the state would not be compromised by the selfish actions of a few ‘renegades.’
(NAN)