Nigeria Bans Shia Group Following Deadly Protests

The Government of Nigeria has banned Shia group the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) following a court ruling that permits the authorities to label it as a “terrorist” organisation.

The move follows deadly clashes at protests in Abuja calling for the release of pro-Iranian leader Ibrahim Zakzaky. IMN claims that at least 20 of its supporters lost their lives in clashes with the authorities last week.

In a statement explaining the Government’s position the office of the presidency wrote, "Proscription of Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) has nothing to do with banning the larger numbers of peaceful and law abiding Shia in the country from practicing their religion, instead it was to discourage wanton violence, murder and willful destruction of public and private property.”

Increased concerns for Zakzaky’s health have led to calls for him to be released so he can seek treatment abroad. However, a bail hearing scheduled for Monday July 29 was postponed until August 5. While he was detained in 2015 following a clash which resulted in the deaths of around 350 of his supporters he remains in prison to this day despite a 2016 court order for his release. 

The IMN has rejected the Government’s ban and says it will continue to protest for Zakzaky’s release.