By Zailani Mustapha Abuja — The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police have reportedly arrested participants of a birthday celebration in h...
By Zailani Mustapha
Abuja — The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police have reportedly arrested participants of a birthday celebration in honour of the daughter of Prophet Muhammad (SAWW), sparking outrage from the Islamic Movement in Nigeria.
According to a press release issued by Sheikh Sidi Munir Mainasara on behalf of the Islamic Movement under the leadership of Sheikh Zakzaky, the arrests occurred shortly after the event concluded on December 23, 2024.
“There was no form of provocation from the participants warranting the arrest. In fact, they were preparing to leave the venue for their respective destinations,” the statement read.
The group alleges that the police apprehended mostly women and minors, including a three-month-old infant, describing the arrests as another example of security forces abusing their authority.
“This incident is the latest in a series of similar events, where security forces have been abusing their power by targeting innocent civilians who are exercising their legal rights,” the statement added.
As of the time of filing this report, the exact number of those detained remains unconfirmed. However, eyewitness accounts cited by the Islamic Movement suggest that around 200 individuals were arrested. The group promised to provide further updates as more information becomes available.
Calling for accountability, the Islamic Movement urged authorities to investigate the arrests and ensure that the constitutional rights of citizens are upheld.
“The security agents should note that the freedom to peaceful assembly is an inalienable constitutional right that must not be violated,” the statement concluded.
Efforts to obtain comments from the FCT Police regarding the incident have been unsuccessful as of the time of this report.
There should be a specific location for celebrating birthdays not creating chaos on the main roads
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