Nigerian Police Prohibit Shi’ite Procession in Kaduna for Ashura Day, Threaten Crackdown on Violators

The Kaduna State Police Command has announced a ban on all unauthorised gatherings by members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), also known as Shi’ites, including their planned Ashura procession.

ASP Mansir Hassan, the police spokesperson in Kaduna, issued a statement on Sunday, announcing the ban on unlawful assemblies by IMN members.

The IMN has been proscribed by the government, and the police have reiterated their commitment to enforcing this ban, including preventing any unauthorised processions or gatherings by the group’s members.

This is coming on the heels of a received intelligence indicating that the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria also known as Shi’ite are planning a procession to mark the 2024 Islamic Ashura day ceremony.

The police explained 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.

The police command issued a stern warning that the command will not hesitate to take decisive action against any individual or group, particularly members of the proscribed IMN, who defy the ban on unlawful gatherings.

Hassan emphasised that the full force of the law will be brought to bear on anyone who violates the ban, signaling a strong commitment to maintaining public order and enforcing the prohibition on IMN activities.