Protesting Shiite Muslims Clash Violently With Rival Islamic Group in Jos

A protest by hundreds of Nigerian Shiite Muslims demanding the release of their leader, Sheikh El Zakzaky, in Jos during the weekend turned bloody as the procession clashed with a rival Islamic group. The clash left one person dead and several others injured according to Capt. Ikedichi Iweha, Media and Communications Officer of the Special Task Force, also known as ‘Operation Safe Haven’. “The procession by the women later turned violent as rival Muslim youths clashed along Bauchi Road as the Shi’ite members were proceeding to the Central Mosque," he said. According to him, the incident created tension around Bauchi Road, Rikkos, Angwan Rogo, Dilimi, Nasarawa, Gwom and many other Hausa-dominated areas, leading to a clash between some rival Muslim sects. Things could've gone worse if security operatives hadn't intervened, he said. Many people were also arrested. "The commander has ordered a round-the- clock security surveillance and patrol and we would not want to take chances," he added. “He has also ordered a ban on all forms of rallies, protest or procession in Jos and such rallies must get the permission of the police upon application," PUNCH quoted him as saying.