Shi’ites to embark on procession Tuesday in spite proscription
After weeks of a lull in its activities and a sigh of relief by Nigerians in several cities, the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) has announced plans for its annual Ashura procession next Tuesday though it has been proscribed by a court order.
The group kept the Federal Capital City in Abuja and other areas on edge while protesting the continued detention of its leader, Sheik Ibrahim El-Zakzakky. He was released to go for treatment in India, but the process was botched and he was brought back to Nigeria, amidst blame trading between government and the group.
A deputy commissioner of police, a journalist, and many others lost their lives during the protests in Abuja.
On next Tuesday’s procession, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has warned against it, but the group is adamant and insists it will proceed as planned.
Recall that the Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, had directed policemen to arrest all identified Shi’ite leaders across the country.
The IGP also directed a team of special police to dismantle the IMN structures in the country, vowing the police would not allow the Shi’ite group to violate its proscription by the court.
Reports say the group also known as Shi’ites, would embark on the procession to mark the Day of Ashura, which is the tenth day of Muharram, the first month in the Islamic calendar.
It is observed annually by Shi’ite Muslims worldwide to commemorate the death of Husayn ibn Ali in the Battle of Karbala in Iraq.
Known as the third Shia Imam, Husayn was the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and son of Ali ibn Abi Talib, the first Shia Imam.
Husayn was said to have died during the Battle of Karbala, which was fought on October 10, 680 between his army and the army of the second Umayyad caliph Yazid I.
Additional report by NAN