Violence erupts in Kaduna as Shi’ite protest killing by soldiers

By OKOSUN OKHUELEIGBE

There are reports of eruption of heavy gunfire in Tudun Wada in Kaduna state following protest by Shi’ites members as a result of Saturday clash with soldiers.

The shooting is related to the ongoing siege on the Islamic Movement in the state and military action against the faithfuls.

It was learnt  that three members of Shi’ite have been gunned down, as the popular Kaduna market, Kasuwa has been shot down by authorities following unconfirmed reports that non-indigenes of the state have been asked to leave the state.

A concerned Nigeria, Maryam Abubakar tweeted,  “Please stay at home if you are in Kaduna. Heavy Shi’ite protest ongoing in Kaduna.”

Another Mousa wrote “People are running, closing their shops. Kaduna need prayers.”

Omojuwa Omojuwa, a popular blogger wrote, “This is important! Shooting going on in Kaduna inside town and Tudun Wada area. Police shooting at shi’ite. Everyone be Warned.”

It was further gathered that panic has engulfed Kaduna as Shops, Banks and offices are closing as mass movement is on going from the North to south.

Shiite sects are said to have also blocked Zaria-Kano Road at Dogarawa village inhibiting vehicular movement as some motorists abandoned the route.

Meanwhile, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division in Kaduna, Maj Gen Oyebade said the sect leader and his wives are alive and are in protective custody.

The Nigerian army alleged that members of the sect attempted to assassinate the Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen. Tukur Buratai, when he visited Zaira on Saturday but the sect has denied it, describing the allegation as “blatant lies.”