Operatives of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command of the Nigeria Police Force have arrested members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), also known as Shiites, during a birthday celebration in Abuja.
Sheikh Sidi Munir Mainasara, a prominent member of the group led by Sayyid Ibraheem Ya’qoub El-Zakzaky, disclosed the arrests in a statement on Monday evening.
According to Mainasara, the incident occurred at the conclusion of the event marking the birthday of Prophet Muhammad’s (SAW) daughter.
He emphasized that there was no provocation from the participants to justify the arrests.
“It is important to note that the participants were peacefully preparing to leave the venue when they were apprehended,” Mainasara stated.
The arrested individuals, he added, include mostly women and minors, with a three-month-old baby among them.
While the exact number of those arrested remains unverified, eyewitness accounts suggest that approximately 200 people may have been detained.
Mainasara vowed to provide an update once further details are confirmed.
He condemned the actions of the police, highlighting that this incident is part of a troubling pattern where security forces are accused of abusing their power by targeting peaceful civilians engaged in legal activities.
“We call on the relevant authorities to investigate this incident thoroughly and ensure the protection of citizens’ rights,” he urged.
Mainasara reminded the public that the right to peaceful assembly is enshrined in the Nigerian constitution and must not be violated by security agents.
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