PDP Decries FG’s `Show of Force’ Against Shiite Members

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), on Monday, sympathised with members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), otherwise known as Shiites, over the alleged trampling on their rights by the ruling government of the All Progressives Congress.

The opposition PDP, in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, called for an “immediate inquest into the violent clash between security forces and members of the Shiite movement“ in the Maitama area of Abuja.

Recall that men of the Nigeria Police had earlier today used force to disperse members of the group from the Unity Fountain where they had gathered to protest the continued detention of their leader, Ibrahim El Zakzaky.

In reaction to the forceful dispersion of the Shiites members, the PDP said: “The party is gravely worried over the handling of security in the nation’s capital and the near breakdown of law and order, which resulted in stampede and disruption of public and private businesses in the city centre.

“The PDP has noted that the development is linked with protests over the continued refusal of the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led Federal Government to release the leader of the group, Sheik Ibrahim El-Zakzaky, despite being granted bail by courts of competent jurisdiction.

“The party further notes the continued show of force and infringements on the rights of citizens by the APC administration.

“The PDP and indeed all lovers of democracy across the country are deeply concerned by the continued erosion of democratic tenets by the APC administration, resulting in avoidable crisis in various parts of the country.

“The PDP sues for calm while demanding for an immediate inquest into the cause of this clash.

“We also urge security high commands to ensure that this matter is nipped in the bud with the highest level of professionalism.“