•Kaduna residents placed on security alert
•Shi’ites: we don’t plan to cause chaos
The Kaduna State Police Command has placed residents on security alert ahead of today’s trial of leader of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), Ibraheem El-Zakzaky.
Spokesman Mukhtar Aliyu said movement around the High Court has been restricted.
El-Zakzaky is being tried for the December 2015 clash between his sect and the Army in Zaria, which left scores dead.
Aliyu said: “The Kaduna State Police Command urges the public to be more security conscious as they go about their daily chores and other lawful businesses, by being extra vigilant of their environment, persons around them, and activities of suspicious persons to prevent miscreants from disturbing the peace of the state.
“The public should note that the ban on all forms of processions/demonstrations in Kaduna State is still in force. The police will deal with any person or group who deliberately attempt to violate the ban.
“In view of El-Zakzaky’s trial on Wednesday, security has been put in place for a hitch-free court appearance. Therefore, the public is advised to remain calm and not be apprehensive where they observe unusual number of security personnel in town.
“As part of efforts to ensure a smooth trial, there will be traffic diversion in the following areas – Independence Way; Bida Road and roads leading to Ibrahim Taiwo Road.”
Meanwhile, the sect asked residents to disregard the “fake news” that it plans to attack Kaduna today.
A statement by the President of its media forum, Ibrahim Musa, said the news is false and being peddled by their detractors, including security agents.
The statement reads: “The Islamic Movement in Nigeria cautions the public about rumours that it is planning a “big attack” tomorrow (today) during the trial of our leader, Sheikh Zakzaky.
“It’s a false flag message being peddled by our detractors, the security agents inclusive. We have never staged any attack on anybody throughout our 40-year history. We are peaceful as we have been for many years.”