ABUJA – The Islamic Movement of Nigeria, IMN, also known as the Shi’a Muslims [Shi’ites] yesterday took over major streets of Abuja to protest against the alleged caricature and sensitive cartoon publication of prophet Muhammad in Paris, France.
The Shi’ites led a procession from Nitel Junction, where the demonstration started, to the popular Wuse market, causing serious traffic jam along the way.
The protesters also set ablaze the national flag of France as they chanted religious phrases and songs against the “actions” of president Emmanuel Macron of France for the purported derogatory publication.
The outrage from the protesters led to confusion in the market as traders hurriedly locked up their shops for fear of attacks.
A statement by Sheikh Sidi Munir, a member of the Islamic movement, revealed the reason behind their demonstration, that: “Prophet Muhammad is a symbol of peace, unity, and humanity in general. Publishing his cartoon is a total disrespect and anti unity and global peace.
“We set the France flag on fire in reaction to the attack on Islam and Muslims by the President of France, Emmanuel Macron, since the heinous crime of publishing cartoons of the Prophet by the magazine, Charlie Hebdo.
“Hence, we also applaud the current campaign against the actions of the French President by Muslims across the world and all lovers of peace and humanity.”
The protest, however, ended without any provocation by the security forces.
Nwada Ozoemela Chikwas reporting, Obinwannem News
