The Shiites said that the Islamic procession observed by the members of IMN in the State has been peaceful devoid of violence, while urging the government to rescind its decision to place the group on the ban list.
In a statement, the spokesman of IMN, Mallam Ibrahim Musa said: "The Islamic Movement is highly dismayed when news emanated that Sokoto state Commissioner of justice has announced the ban on Shiite processions in the state", pointing out that the ban was said to have been "hinged on the premise that there are ongoing activities of Shiite members in the state, that could cause public disorder."
He added: "For the avoidance of any doubt we will like to remind the state government and the general public that all our processions have been peaceful throughout the history of the Islamic Movement. In fact, the last three processions held by the Islamic Movement in Nigeria in Sokoto metropolis were devoid of anything unpleasant and even enjoyed police protection as ordered by the constitution. Hence we are surprised by the anticipated public disorder as proclaimed by the Commissioner.
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