SHAFAQNA– Nigerian forces have killed at least three Muslims and injured many more during nationwide attacks against events marking Ashura.
The clashes took place in the states of Kaduna and Katsina, Sokoto and Gombe, local media reported Tuesday.
Nigerian forces also used tear gas to disperse the processions, which in some cities turned into rallies for the release of the top Muslim cleric, Sheikh Ibrahim el-Zakzaky, who leads the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN).
Witnesses say the capital Abuja has been placed on a lockdown and armed forces have blocked roads to stop Ashura mourners from gathering, iuvm press reported.
Erlier on September 3, the Nigerian police issued a decree ordering its forces to arrest the leader of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria(IMN) Sheikh Zakzaky’s supporters on the eve of the month of Muharram and the religious centers affiliated with them are banned from performing mourning ceremonies across the country.