The United States of America has called on the Nigerian government to probe the killing of members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, IMN, otherwise referred to as Shiite, as a result of their clashes with security forces.
The US said a thorough probe should be carried out and those guilty of violating the law of the country be brought to book.
It, however, cautioned the parties involved in the clashes to show restraint.
The statement by the US embassy in Nigeria to that effect on Thursday reads: “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.”
Starting from Saturday, security agencies and the Shiite have been clashing in different parts of Abuja.
Shiite members had at different times gathered in parts of Abuja to carry out processions in protest of the continued detention of their leader, Ibrahim El-Zakzaky.
Security forces had, however, thwarted the efforts, describing their actions as disturbing public peace.
Several members of the group were killed while no fewer than 400 others were arrested.
Among those arrested were accused of carrying bottles of petrol bombs.
