Hawzah News Agency (Kaduna State, Nigeria)- Apparently trying hard to control the activities of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), the Kaduna State Government has banned any form of procession and what it calls “unlawful assemblies.”

The ban follows strident protests that have followed the proscription of the IMN and its branding as an insurgent group by the state government, an action that the sect has rejected.

The state government issued a strong warning, yesterday, saying anyone who breaches the ban would be dealt with in accordance with the law. It sought the understanding and cooperation of the citizens towards the success of the ban.

The statement banning processions and illegal assemblies was signed by the governor’s spokesman, Samuel Aruwan.

The statement read: “No processions will be allowed for now in Kaduna State.

“A meeting of heads of security agencies in the state was convened to review the security situation in the state. Based on assessments of security reports, the meeting recommended that the Kaduna State government should impose a temporary restriction on processions and act sternly against unlawful assembly.

“The government has endorsed the recommendation and has decided to restrict processions accordingly.“

“The decision was taken in the interest of the citizenry and to ensure law and order in the state.“

“Security agencies have been mandated to ensure compliance to the ban. All citizens are advised to go about their lawful activities, and to do their utmost to uphold peace and harmony.”

The police had earlier warned members of the Islamic sect against all form of procession in the state.

However, the ban by the state government follows strident protests by the group, which culminated to its being labelled an insurgent group, an action that the sect has vehemently rejected.

The state government issued a strong warning yesterday, saying that anyone who breached the ban would be dealt with in accordance with the law.

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