By - Muhammad Jawad MJ
On Sunday, 25th August, 2024, in a shocking and deplorable display of violence, the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) launched an unprovoked and brutal attack on the peaceful participants of the Arba'een Trek in Abuja. This sacred pilgrimage, commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (AS), has long been a peaceful expression of faith and devotion. Yet, the actions of the NPF on this fateful day have left a deep scar on Nigeria’s reputation for upholding the rights and freedoms of its citizens.
The Arba'een Trek is a solemn and non-violent religious procession, yet it was met with excessive force by the NPF. Eyewitnesses recount how the police, armed with batons, tear gas, and live ammunition, attacked the peaceful trekkers without any provocation. Men, women, and even children were subjected to this senseless violence. Several participants sustained injuries, many were captured, and disturbing reports of torture while in custody have emerged, highlighting the NPF's gross abuse of power.
Among the most egregious actions taken by the NPF was the release of pictures showing detained women without their hijabs. This deliberate act of humiliation and degradation is not only a violation of these women's personal rights but also a blatant disrespect for Islamic values. The hijab, a symbol of modesty and faith, is sacred to Muslim women, and its removal in such a manner is a profound violation of their religious and human rights. The NPF’s conduct in this regard is a direct assault on the dignity of Muslim women and their freedom to practice their religion.
Equally troubling is the silence from human rights organizations, both within Nigeria and internationally. The failure of these bodies to speak out against such a blatant abuse of power is deeply disappointing. It raises serious questions about their commitment to defending the rights of all individuals, regardless of their faith or background. The silence of these organizations in the face of such clear violations is not just a betrayal of the victims but also of the principles these organizations claim to uphold.
The attack on the Arba'een trekkers is not an isolated incident but part of a disturbing pattern of state-sponsored oppression against the Islamic Movement and its followers. The NPF, acting with impunity and apparent state backing, has consistently targeted peaceful religious activities, undermining the fundamental rights enshrined in Nigeria's Constitution.
We refuse to remain silent. We will continue to expose these injustices and bring to light the truth about the ongoing persecution faced by members of our community. The world must know about the NPF’s flagrant disregard for human rights and the dignity of Nigerian citizens.
The Nigerian Police Force’s attack on the Arba'een trekkers is a gross violation of human rights and an affront to the principles of justice and equality. We condemn these actions in the strongest possible terms and will continue to fight against such injustices until every Nigerian can practice their faith freely and without fear of violence or persecution. The silence of human rights organizations is a stain on their credibility, and we call on all those who believe in justice to stand with us in condemning this egregious abuse of power.
28-Aug-2024
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