Lt General Tukur Buratai: chief of army staff: convoy attacked

The Nigerian Army has issued a statement detailing the attack in Zaria, Kaduna State,  on the Chief of army staff, Lt. General Tukur Buratai by followers of Shiite leader, Ibrahim Zak Zaky. The incident happened Saturday afternoon.

In a statement by Col Sani Usman, the army said its chief’s convoy was attacked on the  orders of their leader, Ibrahim Alzak-zaky  while Buratai was  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.

Shiite elements blocking the road

“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 publicised.

Sheikh Ibrahim Zak Zaky: accused of ordering the attack

“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.

Soldiers talking with the Shiites

“We wish to implore all Nigerians to continue to be law abiding and remain conscious of other peoples right to life, freedom of movement and passage. The Chief of Army escaped unhurt and continued with his duties.”

According to earlier reports, the Shiite muslims had blocked the Samaru-PZ Road since yesterday after the clash with another muslim group, the Darika Sect.

The violent clash between the two sects led to the death of three persons on Friday.