SHIITE/ARMY CLASH: NSCIA MEETS IGP.
Following Police investigations into the immediate and remote causes of the confrontation that ensued between the Nigerian Army and members of the Shiite Islamic group in Kaduna recently, a delegation of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, have met with the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Solomon Arase at Force Headquarters, Abuja.
Prof Ishaq O. Oloyede, head of the delegation and the Secretary-General of Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, in his address appreciated the leadership qualities of IGP Solomon Arase and the Force Management Team.
He thanked the Force for the cooperation extended to the Islamic body, and further used the medium to mediate on the clash between Shiite Islamic group and the Military which occurred recently in Zaria.
A statement signed by the Force Public Relations officer, ACP Olabisi Kolawole said, “The Secretary-General urged the IGP to look into the immediate and remote causes of the incident with a view to avoiding such in future.
“The body equally appealed for possible medical assistance to those detained in connection with the incident.
Responding, IGP Arase appreciated the delegation’s visit to his office and emphasized that the Police and other security agencies are conscious of Nigerian citizens’ fundamental rights and would protect them.
While assuring them of professional investigation of the incident, the IGP appealed to the Islamic body to use its reputable and respected platform to caution all groups in the country, that while they have the constitutional rights to express their views, it should not circumscribe the rights of others.
Meanwhile, contrary to an online report by Premium Times, credited to the IGP, that to make the access to the sect members possible, he would have to seek “orders from the above”, the Inspector-General has said that at no time did he say that there would be special clearance from anywhere before the Shiite members could be visited while still in custody.
“The IGP made it clear that the detainees could be visited by their friends, relatives and lawyers, observing necessary legitimate procedures” the FPRO said.
The IGP, however, reiterated the commitment of the Force to the protection of lives and property and adherence to the tenet of fundamental human rights.
END.
