Army releases statement on assassination attempt on Army Chief in Zaria

Several people were killed today during a firefight
between the Nigerian Army and members of the
Shitte Muslim sect, in Zaria, Kaduna. Below is the
press release by the Acting Director Army Public
Relations, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman on the
attack and after the cut are graphic photos from
the incident
The Shiite Sect on the orders of their
leader, Ibrahim Alzak-zaky today
afternoon in Zaria attacked the
convoy of the Chief of Army Staff
while on his way to pay homage on
the Emir of Zazzau and attend the
Passing Out Parade of 73 Regular
Recruits Intake of Depot Nigerian
Army, Zaria.
The sect numbering hundreds
carrying dangerous weapons,
barricaded the roads with bonfires,
heavy stones and tyres. They
refused all entreaties to disperse
and then started firing and pelting
the convoy with dangerous objects.
The barricade was obviously a
deliberate attempt to assassinate
the Chief of Army Staff and
members of his entourage while on
a legitimate official assignment as
Special Guest of Honour at the
passing out parade which has earlier
been widely publicized. The troops
responsible for the safety and
security of the Chief of Army Staff
on hearing explosion and firing were
left with no choice than to defend
him and the convoy at all cost as
well as open up the barricaded road
for law abiding citizens. This is in
line with the Nigerian Army Rules of
Engagement and Code of Conduct.
This kind of behaviour will not be
tolerated from any individual or
groups and should not be allowed to
repeat itself. We wish to implore all
Nigerians to continue to be law
abiding and remain conscious of
other people’s right to life, freedom
of movement and passage. The
Chief of Army escaped unhurt and
continued with his duties.