Condemning The Killings of Shia Muslims in Nigeria: A Call For Justice, Humanity, Comr Suleiman Writes

By Emmanuel Kwada

In a powerful statement addressing the escalating violence against Shia Muslims in Nigeria, Comrade Suleiman A. Abubakar has issued a passionate plea for justice, humanity, and adherence to the rule of law.

Writing from Jambutu Jimeta in Yola North, Adamawa State, Abubakar condemns the recurring killings of Shia Muslims, calling for an end to extrajudicial violence and urging all parties to foster dialogue and mutual respect in a nation marked by religious and cultural diversity.

The loss of life, regardless of religious affiliation, is a tragedy that reverberates through families and communities, deepening divisions and perpetuating cycles of violence

The targeting of Shia Muslims, particularly during religious gatherings and observances, has become a distressing pattern in recent years, raising alarm over the state of human rights in Nigeria. Abubakar describes these acts as not merely violence but as grave violations of fundamental human rights that demand the condemnation of all who value justice.

“The loss of life, regardless of religious affiliation, is a tragedy that reverberates through families and communities, deepening divisions and perpetuating cycles of violence,” he writes, emphasizing the urgent need to break this destructive cycle.

Abubakar directly calls upon Nigerian security agencies, including the police and the Nigerian Army, to operate strictly within the bounds of law and order. While acknowledging the importance of maintaining peace and security, he stresses that this must never justify the loss of human life.

Killing innocent individuals will never solve underlying issues; rather, it will create more victims and intensify the pain felt by those already suffering

“Should any group, including Shia Muslims, conduct activities deemed unlawful, the appropriate course of action is clear: individuals should be arrested and prosecuted in a competent court of law,” he asserts.

He denounces extrajudicial killings and violent crackdowns as unacceptable, arguing that such actions only perpetuate fear, repression, and further grievances within affected communities. “Killing innocent individuals will never solve underlying issues; rather, it will create more victims and intensify the pain felt by those already suffering,” he adds.

At the same time, Abubakar urges Shia Muslims to adhere to Nigeria’s laws and regulations while practicing their faith. He advocates for peaceful dialogue with authorities and a commitment to the rule of law as a pathway to reducing tensions.

“When religious practices and public demonstrations are conducted within the framework of Nigerian laws, it fosters an environment of mutual respect and understanding,” he notes, suggesting that such an approach could help prevent the brutal and illegal killings that have plagued the Shia community.

Nigeria’s rich diversity, with its multitude of religions and cultures, is both a strength and a challenge. Abubakar underscores the collective responsibility of all Nigerians to promote tolerance and understanding, asserting that the path to peace lies in dialogue and respect for the human rights of every individual.

We must work together to ensure that every citizen can live without fear of violence or persecution

“In a country as diverse as Nigeria, where multiple religions and cultures exist side by side, we must work together to ensure that every citizen can live without fear of violence or persecution,” he writes.

Comrade Suleiman A. Abubakar’s statement serves as a clarion call for justice, urging both the government and citizens to address the root causes of religious violence through lawful and compassionate means.

His words resonate as a reminder of the shared humanity that binds Nigerians together, even amidst differences, and the urgent need to uphold the principles of fairness and equality for all.