Military moves to stop Shiites planned protest in Jos

Operation Safe Haven, a Special Task Force has ordered troops to stop members of the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) from protesting in any part of Plateau State.

The order was contained in a statement signed by the Military Information Officer, Major Ishaku Takwa.

IMN had planned a protest in Plateau State for Friday 20th August, 2021 over the health challenges of its leader Ibrahim El-Zakazky.

It would be recalled that over the years, there have been repeated clashes between members of the IMN and security agents.

However, the joint security task force said intelligence reports indicate that the planned protest will breach security in the state.

The statement said, “Operation Safe Haven, the joint security task force maintaining law and order in Plateau State and parts of Bauchi and southern Kaduna has ordered troops to ensure that the planned protest by members of the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) or any other group do not take place in any part of Plateau state until full security is guaranteed”.

Major Takwa’s communique, also noted that the planned march could be hijacked by hoodlums and miscreants thereby causing mayhem within the Jos metropolis.

The Military called on members of the IMN to shelve their planned protest as the operation is committed to the total restoration of peace in the Plateau.

The force informed that it is working with the state government, critical stakeholders such as traditional and religious leaders and the citizens to achieve the mandate.