Islamic Movement in Nigeria Denies Reports of Planned Attacks on Police in Borno

The Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) has denied reports of planning reprisal attacks on police operatives in Borno State following the recent killing of their members in Kaduna.

The movement, also known as Shi’ites, clarified that it has no intention of disrupting public peace, despite the false claims circulating in an intelligence message from the Borno State Police Command.

The police wireless message, dated April 9, 2024, warned of potential attacks by the “armed wing” of the IMN on vulnerable locations, including hotels, beer parlors, and police checkpoints.

However, Professor I. H. Mshelgaru, a member of the movement, refuted these claims and emphasized that the IMN has no intention of avenging the killings of their members in Kaduna and Zaria.

Mshelgaru pointed out the absurdity of seeking revenge in Borno State for incidents that occurred in Kaduna, noting that it would be illogical and incompatible with the movement’s values.

Furthermore, the IMN rejected the notion of having an armed wing, citing the Nigerian security forces’ unprovoked attacks on their members in the past.

The Islamic Movement in Nigeria, led by Sheikh Ibraheem El-Zakzaky, expressed deep concern over the false claims and reassured the public of their commitment to maintaining peace.

The movement criticized the police for spreading misinformation and urged the authorities to focus on ensuring public safety rather than creating unnecessary fear and tension.

The IMN’s response to these allegations underscores their dedication to peaceful coexistence and their rejection of violence as a means of addressing grievances.

The movement continues to advocate for justice and accountability for the killings of their members in Kaduna and Zaria, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and legal processes in resolving conflicts.