There was confusion and pandemonium in Kaduna yesterday as members of the Sheikh Ibrahim El-Zakzaky led Shiite Islamic faith known as Islamic Movement of Nigeria clashed with the convoy of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai.
The Islamic Movement claimed that seven of its members were killed and 20 grievously wounded in the ugly and unnecessary incidence.
A statement by Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman, Acting Director Army, Public Relations, yesterday, read: “The Shiite sect, on the orders of their leader, Ibrahim Yaqoub El Zakzaky, today (yesterday) afternoon in Zaria attacked the convoy of the Chief of the Army Staff while on his way to pay homage on the Emir of Zazzau and attend the passing out parade of 73 regular recruits intake of Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria.
“The sect members, numbering hundreds and carrying dangerous weapons, barricaded the roads with bonfires, heavy stones and tyres. They refused all entreaties to disperse and then started firing and pelting the convoy with dangerous objects.
“The barricade was obviously a deliberate attempt to assassinate the Chief of the Army Staff and members of his entourage while on a legitimate official assignment as Special Guest of Honour at the passing out parade which had earlier been widely publicized. “The troops responsible for the safety and security of the Chief of the Army Staff, on hearing the explosion and firing, were left with no choice than to defend him and the convoy at all costs, as well as open up the barricaded road for law abiding citizens. This is in line with the Nigerian Army Rules of Engagement and Code of Conduct,” Usman said.
Mallam Usman Ibrahim, media aide to the Shiite leader, Sheikh Ibrahim El-Zakyzaky, in a reaction, said, “as members of the Islamic Movement were heading to the centre where the prayers to usher in the Maulud was to be held, soldiers started shooting at them and we presently have three dead bodies in our possession with 20 others injured.”
