Three members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), also known as Shi’ites, were reportedly killed in an attack on a mosque in Geidam, Yobe State, on Friday.
The mosque, Fudiyyah Islamiyyah School, is affiliated with Sheikh Ibraheem El-Zakzaky, the leader of the IMN.
Eyewitnesses reported that the attack occurred around 4 a.m. during early morning prayers. The victims were identified as Shaheed Ahmad Abdurrahman, Shaheed Muhammad Saleh, and Shaheed Abdullahi Unguwar Karau Kawo. Several other worshippers were injured and are currently receiving medical treatment.
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This incident comes on the heels of a recent crackdown on the Islamic Movement by Nigerian authorities.
On Monday, police allegedly received orders to arrest members of the group. Following these orders, there were reports of raids on Fudiyyah Islamiyyah School in Abuja and the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital in Gwagwalada, where police were accused of vandalizing facilities and arresting innocent individuals.
In response to the attack, Sheikh Sidi Mainasara, speaking on behalf of the IMN, condemned the assault and vowed to pursue justice for the victims. “We condemn this attack and the killing of Muslim worshippers in the mosque in Geidam, Geidam Local Government, Yobe State, and vow to take necessary action against the perpetrators of this devilish act,” he stated.
Sheikh Mainasara also highlighted what he described as a “disturbing trend” of targeted actions against the Islamic Movement, noting that the recent events were part of a broader pattern of persecution. He referenced the police raids and previous incidents where Muslim sisters were allegedly mistreated by authorities, including the forcible removal of their hijabs.
The IMN leader emphasized that the group is closely monitoring the situation and will continue to assess the unfolding events. He called on the public to be aware of these developments and the apparent targeting of the Muslim community.
