Senate probes Army/Shiite clash in Zaria

The Senate has raised an ad-hoc committee to investigate the clash between members of the Nigerian Army and Shiite in Zaria, Kaduna State on Saturday.

The committee with a four- week mandate to submit reports comprises of a chairmen and vice chairmen of Senate committees on Defence, Intelligence and National Security, Judiciary, Army, Police Affairs, Internal Affairs and Foreign Affairs.

Chaired by Senator Ahmad Lawan, the committee was conveyed after over one and half hour closed door session held by senators before the commencement of Wednesday’s plenary.

A statement issued later by Senate Committee Chairman on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Aliyu Abdullahi, said the Senate was concerned and deeply regretted the crisis.

“The Senate deeply and sincerely regrets the loss of lives and properties and hereby appeals for calm by all affected parties and the general public while the investigation is carried out.

“The Senate is seriously concerned and committed to ensuring that peace reigns in our dear country and will act in accordance with the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria at all times,” Abdullahi said.