On Monday, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun directed law enforcement to track down and apprehend those responsible for the recent attack on police officers during a procession by the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), also known as the Shi’ites.
On Sunday, the police reported that Shi’ite members assaulted their personnel during a procession, resulting in the deaths of two officers and leaving three others hospitalized in critical condition. In response, the Shi’ite group claimed that the police were responsible for the deaths and injuries of several of their members during the same event in the Wuse area of the Federal Capital Territory.
In a statement from Force Spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi, the IG condemned the killings, asserting that “those who murdered these policemen have murdered peace.”
The statement, titled “Police Condemn Shi’ite Attack in Abuja, Order Operatives to Hunt for Sponsors, Killers of Policemen,” read:
“The Nigeria Police Force has strongly condemned the unprovoked assault by the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria, commonly known as the Shi’ite group, on police personnel in Abuja on August 25, 2024.
“Following the Inspector-General of Police’s directive, significant progress has been made, including the arrest of 97 suspects and the recovery of several weapons used in the attack.
“The IGP remains committed to capturing the remaining suspects and ensuring that the perpetrators are brought to justice, underscoring his dedication to upholding law and order and combating all forms of unrest in the country.
“The senseless killing of police officers while performing their duties is deeply troubling and unacceptable, as those responsible have disrupted peace.”
Adejobi assured that the full extent of the attack would be investigated to prevent similar incidents in the future.
He expressed condolences to the families of the deceased officers and wished a swift recovery to the injured.
“The IGP extends heartfelt sympathies to the families of the fallen officers and stands with them in their grief. He also wishes a rapid recovery to those receiving medical treatment and hopes for their complete return to health,” Adejobi added.
He concluded by calling on the public to support the police in maintaining law and order amidst extremist threats and other forms of violence.
“The NPF seeks the support and understanding of the general public to uphold law and order, even in the face of extremist threats and violent crime across the country.”
