Iran: Shi’ites Protest In FCT Over Soleimani’s Killing, As CrItics Decry Lack Of Protests When Boko Haram Kills Christians
The Oasis Reporters
January 9, 2020
When members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria and some youths on Monday protested the killing of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani and his aides in a drone airstrike by the United States, many pundits have questioned why Nigerians cannot demonstrate when Boko Haram insurgents capture innocent Christians for execution, citing whatever reasons that catches their fancy.
The Shi’ites burnt American flags at the Banex, Wuse area of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
The angry protesters chanted hate songs and slogans such as ‘Death To America’,’ as they condemned the US action.
The sect members also demanded the release of their leader, Sheikh Ibraheem El-Zakzaky and his wife, Zeenat, who are currently in prison custody.
It was also gathered that some Muslim youths blocked the Abuja-Keffi highway in protest against Soleimani’s killing causing serious traffic gridlock on the busy road.
The unruly youths also paralyzed commercial activities in the Mararaba and Nyanya axis of the FCT as traders who feared an escalation of their action locked up their shops and fled.
It was gathered that the youths were subsequently dispersed by security agencies after some time.
Reacting to the development, the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs appealed to the youths “not to allow their emotions becloud them to the dangers of taking to the streets”.
The Head of Media and Communication, NSCIA, Ibrahim Aselemi, in a statement noted that the impasse between Iran and America could only be resolved through dialogue.
While noting that protest is an integral part of all civil democracies in the world, the council said the timing was wrong as it could lead to loss of lives.
It said, “We appeal to these Muslim youths not to allow their emotions becloud them to the dangers of taking to the streets.
“We appeal to the law enforcement agencies to be alive to their responsibilities of protecting lives and property”.
Many commentators believe that such scenario of protesting over events that occur in distant lands while unspeakable horrors occur in Nigeria, may be due to the penchant for adoring foreign things because a conscious effort has not been harnessed sufficiently to build a Nigerian nation who see one another as one with a common purpose and destiny.
However, many Christians in media circles rose and wrote critical essays over the incarceration of the Shiite leader and his wife. Just as the killing of Shiites was roundly and vigorously condemned by Christians in Nigeria.
Though reports indicate that some Shiites felicitated with Christians at the last Christmas celebration in Northern Nigeria.
In another development, the Inspector General of Police, IGP Mohammed Adamu has placed Police Commands on red alert over the death of the Iranian General.
Here’s the police Press Release:
DEATH OF IRANIAN GENERAL: IGP PLACES POLICEMEN ON RED ALERT NATIONWIDE
The Inspector General of Police, IGP Mohammed Adamu has placed Police Commands and Formations nationwide on red alert. This proactive measure follows Intelligence Report that sequel to the recent killing of an Iranian General; some domestic interests are planning to embark on massive public disturbances and sabotage.
Consequently, Zonal AIGs and Command Commissioners of Police have been directed to ensure maximum surveillance and security of lives and property across the nation.
The Police Commanders have been directed to ensure strategic deployments of both overt and covert Police operatives to ensure adequate security and safety of citizens, foreigners, especially diplomats and diplomatic missions domiciled in Nigeria as well as the protection of critical national assets.
Meanwhile, the IGP has assured all Nigerians and foreigners resident in Nigeria of adequate security. He has equally warned all potential troublemakers to steer clear of the streets and territory of Nigeria.
DCP FRANK MBA
Force Public Relations Officer
Force Headquarters
Abuja .
