From Mu’awiya Bala Idris, Katsina
The Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), popularly known as Shi’ites, has accused security agents in Katsina State of intimidating and harassing its members to prevent them from holding a public procession in solidarity with the Republic of Iran amid the ongoing conflict with the United States and Israel.
This was disclosed at a press conference in Katsina, where the state leader of the group, Sheikh Yakubu Musa Hassan, said the public procession was a lawful activity guaranteed under Nigeria’s constitution and a response to the plight of oppressed Muslims globally.
Represented by Shehu Usman Dalhatu, Sheikh Musa described the situation in a one-page statement titled “Security Agents are Preparing to Spill Blood in Katsina State”.
He stressed that the procession and prayers were the only support the Movement could offer to Muslims suffering in Palestine and Iran.
He said, “Public procession in support of tyrannized fellow Muslims is an Islamic sacred duty enjoined on all Muslims by Prophet Muhammad (SAW).”
Sheikh Musa alleged that followers of the Movement in Katsina are currently being confronted by combat-ready armed soldiers and police officers patrolling and threatening to attack them.
He added that the Islamic Movement has never disrupted law and order in the state, noting: “In the last over 30 years, we have been witnessed by the entire people of Katsina State to be conducting peaceful processions without any threat to life or property of anybody.”
Sheikh Musa warned that any outbreak of violence in future processions should be attributed to the actions of security agents.
