Six Shi’ite Structures Reduced To Rubble In Kaduna

EKO HOT BLOG reports that in a recent development in Kaduna, the Kaduna State Urban Planning and Development Authority (KASUPDA) has demolished six structures belonging to followers of Sheikh Ibrahim el-Zakzaky, commonly referred to as Shi’ites.

The demolished structures included schools, a hospital, and a private residence, among others, located in various areas of Kaduna town and its environs.

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Yunusa Lawal, a spokesperson for the movement while addressing the media in Kaduna on Sunday, expressed his concerns about the situation.

He stated that since 2015, Governor Nasir el-Rufai has been demolishing their structures, leaving the movement with limited options.

Lawal further elaborated that KASUPDA, with the assistance of security personnel, carried out the demolitions in the areas of Kawo, Rigasa, Tudun Wada, and Ungwan Rimi, forcibly evicting the occupants who were Shi’ites.

Lawal voiced his frustration, stating, “We’re being pushed to the wall.”

He criticized the demolition, deeming it not only illegal but also vindictive, as the only justification provided by the government was that their movement had been banned.

He added that they had not received any official notice regarding the reasons for the demolitions. Moreover, Lawal expressed uncertainty regarding the locations of the remaining 42 structures that the government plans to demolish.

The spokesperson highlighted that the leaked memo indicated their proscribed status as the sole reason behind the demolitions. However, he argued that they are a religious community and cannot be banned.

Emphasizing that they are legitimate Nigerian citizens, Lawal stressed that Governor el-Rufai does not possess any superior citizenship status over them.

The demolition of the Shi’ites’ structures in Kaduna has sparked controversy and raised concerns about religious freedom and the treatment of minority groups. The incident calls for further attention and dialogue to ensure the protection of citizens’ rights while maintaining law and order in the state.

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The affected Shi’ite community continues to assert their constitutional rights as they navigate this challenging situation.

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