US expresses concern over Nigerian Army’s clash with Shiite in Zaria

The United States of America on Wednesday expressed deep concerned over reports of violent clashes between members of the Nigerian Army and the Shiite group Islamic Movement of Nigeria in Zaria, Kaduna State.

United States Diplomatic Mission to Nigeria in a statement made available to NEWSVERGE said it is dismayed to learn of multiple civilian deaths.

The US however urged all sides to refrain from actions that could further destabilize the situation.

In the statement, “While many details of the incidents that reportedly began on December 12 remain unclear, we are dismayed to learn of multiple civilian deaths. It is essential that all sides refrain from actions that further destabilize the situation.

“The United States calls on the Government of Nigeria to quickly, credibly, and transparently investigate these events in Zaria and hold to account any individuals found to have committed crimes.”

Speaking to reporters at the American Corner in Calabar, U.S. Ambassador James Entwistle noted the U.S. government’s deep concern over reports of violent clashes during the past several days between members of the Nigerian Army and the Shiite group Islamic Movement of Nigeria in Zaria, Kaduna State.

He said that while many details of the incidents that reportedly began on December 12 remain unclear, “we are dismayed to learn of multiple civilian deaths. It is essential that all sides refrain from actions that further destabilize the situation.”

Noting Interior Minister Abdulrahman Dambazau’s trip to Zaria on Tuesday, the Ambassador said, “Speaking as a friend of Nigeria, I am sure Minister Dambazau’s trip to Zaria was the first step in the timely, transparent investigation to which I’m sure Mr. President and his administration are committed.”