Sequel to the recent clash between security operatives and members Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) popularly known as Shi’ites during a protest in Abuja, the Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Ikamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS) has advised President Muhamamdu Buhari to take all the necessary measures in order to prevent further protests and attacks by the group.
JIBWIS also called on the National Assembly members to screen out any ministerial nominee who has inclination or membership with the Shi’ites or any other group calling for the breaking up of the country.
DAILY POST recalls that for almost a week, members of IMN have been protesting in Abuja against the continued detention of their leader, Sheikh Ibrahim el-Zakzaky and his wife Zinatu, despite a court ruling that they should be released on bail.
The protests led to clashes between Police and Shi’ites, which as a result about 13 people have been reported dead, including a Channels TV’s reporter , Precious Owolabi and senior policeman.
But, JIBWIS through its National Chairman Ulama Council, Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, gave the advise in a chat with journalists in Jos, the Plateau State Capital.
The group reiterated that as a Muslim organization it wouldn’t fold it arms and allow things to escalate without given a proper advice.
Jingir said, “It is unfortunate that citizens of a country are taking arms against their police, wanting to attack the national assembly and also saying they would kill the children of the President or even the President himself.
“We want President Buhari not to treat this issue with kid gloves, he should take neccessary measures in making sure that security agencies and all relevant parties dealt with the issue of Shi’ites squarely,” He said.
The Islamic leader further said that the Shi’ites are not patrotic Nigerians by their actions, alleging that, “They were instigated by Iran, and I want them to know that Iranian citizens wouldn’t resort to attack their country or even attempting to kill their leaders that the Shi’ites in Nigeria were doing.”
On the issue of screening of ministerial nominees by the Senate, the Islamic Cleric urged the national assembly to “screen out any ministerial nominee that has inclination or membership with the Shi’ites group and those calling for breaking up of the country”.
“We learnt that among the ministerial nominees, there is also a member of the Shi’ite group, and those that are agitating for the break off of Nigeria, those nominees shouldn’t be confirmed,” he concluded.
