By Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar
Members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), followers of Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky in Katsina State, have raised concerns over what they describe as intimidation by security operatives during their recent religious processions in the Katsina metropolis.
In a statement obtained by Katsina Times, the group alleged that security personnel have been frequently patrolling the city with armored vehicles and heavy weapons while they conduct their long-standing religious marches held at various times of the year.
According to the statement, the security presence intensified in recent days as members organized processions mourning the killing of an Iranian Islamic religious leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, which they claimed resulted from a joint attack by Israel and the United States.
The group expressed concern that the deployment of armed personnel could create fear among residents. They also alleged receiving reports that some security operatives instructed traders and shop owners to close their businesses whenever members of the movement take to the streets for their procession.
“We have observed increased movement of security personnel within the past week, using armored vehicles and carrying weapons, while we carry out our religious procession,” the statement said.
The group linked the development to the ongoing tensions involving Iran, the United States and Israel, accusing the Nigerian government of aligning closely with foreign powers in a way that, according to them, places pressure on individuals who publicly express support for Iran.
They further claimed that the Inspector-General of Police had directed security agencies to monitor individuals showing support for Iran, which they described as a threat to freedom of expression and the right to peaceful assembly as guaranteed by the Nigerian Constitution.
The statement also recalled that for more than three decades, members of the movement have held various demonstrations in Katsina peacefully without causing violence, unrest, or destruction of property.
The group urged the government and community leaders to remain vigilant to prevent any incident that could be wrongly attributed to them, stressing that they dissociate themselves from any form of violence or harm to others.
They added that their expressions of solidarity with Muslims in other parts of the world are acts of religious brotherhood, prayers, and advocacy for justice for those they believe are oppressed.
The statement concluded with a call for peaceful coexistence and mutual understanding between the public and security agencies in order to prevent any escalation of tension in Katsina State.
