Chief of Army Staff escapes assassination by Shiite sect – Army spokesman; Three dead, 20 injured as sect clashes with Army in Zaria

Three persons were confirmed dead while twenty sustained injuries in Zaria, Kaduna State on Saturday as members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, also known as Shiites clashed with the Army.

Eyewitness had it that the COAS was in Zaria to attend the Passing Out Parade at the 73 Regular Recruit Intake of the Depot Nigerian Army, also in Zaria.

An eyewitness told our correspondent that the programme coincided with that of the Shiites who were to hold the annual Maulud at Hussaimiyya in Zaria.

“As early as 12 ‘0 clock the members of the shite barricaded the road where the COAS was to pass through.

“He security details attached to the Chief of Army Staff came down from the vehicle to plead with the congregation. From the distance, we could hear gun shots,” he said

But it was gathered that the convoy of the Chief of Army Staff succeeded in clearing the way for him to pass.

According to the eyewitness, immediately the COAS left, some soldiers in three trucks arrived the scene.

Reacting on the clash the shite spokes person, Ibrahim Usman said three people were reported dead and 20 injured.

But the Army spokesman, Colonel SK Usman accused the Shiites of assassination attempt on the COAS while on his way to Depot Nigerian Army to review 73 Regular Recruit Intake Passing Out Parade.

He said as the convoy was moving towards to military depot, the COAS vehicle was attacked by members of the shite sect, saying,”infact the COAS escaped assassination attempt.”