Shiites – military clashes: U.S. urges FG to probe fatalities

The Embassy of United States in Nigeria has called on the federal government to conduct a thorough investigation into the clashes between security forces and members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN).

Scores of Shiites protesters were killed and others injured during two days of violent clashes in Abuja.

The US Embassy, in a statement on Thursday, expressed concern over the deaths and urged the government to hold to account those responsible for violations of Nigerian law.

The statement said, “The United States Embassy is concerned by the deaths resulting from clashes between Nigerian security forces and members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria in areas surrounding Abuja.

“We urge Government of Nigeria authorities to conduct a thorough investigation of the events and to take appropriate action to hold accountable those responsible for violations of Nigerian law.  We urge restraint on all sides.”