Police release 83 Zakzaky followers, detain 199

The Kaduna state police command has released 83 followers of Ibrahim Zakzaky, leader of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria, and arraigned 191 of them for various offences, according to Samuel Aruwan, spokesman of Nasir el-Rufai, Kaduna state governor.

In a statement issued at the end of the security council on Wednesday, Aruwan explained that juveniles and women were among those released.

It added that those in detention were charged with offences including obstruction of highways, possession of weapons and attacking security agents.

“The Kaduna State police command has released 83 suspects that were arrested during the Zaria clash between the Nigerian Army and the Shiites movement,” the statement read.

“Among the released detainees are 34 juveniles and 49 women. About 191 suspects have also been arraigned for various offences, including obstruction of highways, possession of weapons and attacking security agents.

“The suspects have been placed on remand pending the conclusion of ongoing investigations which may lead to charges being filed at the state high court or the federal high court.

“The Kaduna state security council has deliberated on recent events in the state. Following briefings received from all security agencies operating in the State, the Kaduna state security council unanimously resolved as follows: adequate security measures would be put in place across the state ahead of Maulud, Christmas and New Year festivities in the state.

“Citizens were advised to continue to be law abiding and report to security agencies, traditional and religious leaders and the government any threat to peace and stability of the state.”

The statement called on those who fled their homes as a result of the clash between the Shi’ia sect and the military, to return to their residence, saying security personnel have been deployed to forestall breakdown of law and order.

“Residents of Gyellesu in Zaria local government area of the state that fled their homes following the unfortunate incident on the 12th December, 2015 are encouraged to return to their homes, as security agencies have been permanently stationed in the community to provide adequate security for citizens residing in the area,” the statement read.

“Citizens whose properties or belongings were abandoned on the streets, including vehicles, motorcycles and other properties were advised to retrieve their properties upon identification and proof of ownership.

“Citizens running lawful businesses in the area were also advised to go about their normal businesses without any hindrance in accordance with the provisions of the law.”