AhlulBayt News Agency (ABNA): Shia Muslims held rallies in different parts of Nigeria in protest at recent police violence against women and girls taking part in Arbaeen mourning rituals.
They denounced forcible removal of hijabs of a number of girls and women participating in the Arbaeen procession last week.
They described the move as a grave violation of divine sanctities and personal rights, according to Akhbar Nigeria website.
The demonstrators also said it was a disgraceful move, an outright crime, an insult to the religious beliefs of the country’s people, and a violation of religious freedom, the constitution and international laws.
The demonstrations came after a video footage circulating on social media showed police officers removing hijabs of several Muslim women during Arbaeen rituals.
The protesters said wearing hijab is part of the religion and the Islamic culture and a right of Muslim women.
They said they would file a complaint with the High Court against the breach of the Muslim women’s rights.
Arbaeen is a religious event observed by Shia Muslims on the fortieth day after the Day of Ashura, commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (AS), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the third Shia Imam.
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