Members of the Islamic Movement, also known as Shi'ites, on Friday, accused the United States (US) and security agencies of alleged plan to disrupt their procession in commemoration of the International Quds Day.
Prof. Dauda Nalado, in a statement on behalf of the Islamic Movement under the leadership of His Eminence Sayyid Ibraheem Ya'qoub El-Zakzaky (H), made the allegations in Abuja.
"It is obvious to all and sundry that the United States of America (USA) is supporting the ongoing genocide of Palestinians, mostly women and children in Gaza.
"The USA is doing all it can to stop global support for the oppressed people of Palestine, including the over 40-year-old annual free Palestine rally and procession being observed by the Islamic Movement under the leadership of his eminence Sheikh Ibraheem El-Zakzaky (H) in many cities across Nigeria.
"The USA embassy in Abuja has released a mischievous letter depicting the planned Quds Day protests of today, Friday, April 5, as confrontational. Again, the Nigerian Police Force made an unusual release to the same effect.
"We would like the public to take note of the following facts:
"International Quds Day is being observed globally, even in the USA, Britain, France, and Israel.
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"This great day is being observed by people of conscience, people with human minds. It is not an affair of Shi'ites only.
"It is not for Muslims only. It involves people of conscience that cuts across religious and ethnic boundaries.
"In Nigeria, this great day has been observed by Muslims from different understandings and by Christians alike for almost four decades now.
"This day is being observed through marches, protests and demonstrations in many cities, including the capital, Abuja, in Nigeria.
"There is no issue of confrontation. Whenever there is pandemonium, it is solely brought about by an attack by the security operatives who are ordered from 'the above' to prevent citizens from exercising their rights.
"We therefore wish to inform the public that the observance of International Quds Day is purely a demonstration of support for the people of Palestine, and there's no cause for alarm or disruption of peace," he said.
