UPDATED: Shiites/security forces clashes: US expresses concern over fatalities

Aidoghie Paulinus, Abuja

The United States has expressed concern over fatalities recorded due to clashes between the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (Shiites) and the security forces in areas surrounding Abuja.

The United States Government therefore called on the Nigerian Government to conduct a thorough investigation of the events and take appropriate action to hold accountable, those responsible for violations of Nigerian law.

The United States expressed its concern in a statement issued by the Information Office, Public Affairs Section, Embassy of the United States of America, and made available to Daily Sun, in Abuja.

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The United States’ statement, which followed recent repeated clashes between the Shiites and security forces over the demand for the release of its leader, Sheikh Ibrahim El-Zakzaky, also called for restraint on both sides.

“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,” the United States said.