Iran Summons Nigerian Ambassador To Protest Shi’ite Clashes In The North

Iran has summoned the Nigerian Charge d’Affaires in Tehran to protest against deadly clashes between Shia Muslims in the country’s north and the army.

Iran’s foreign ministry called the violence between the military and followers of the Shia Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) “unacceptable”, the official ISNA news agency reported on Tuesday.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Mohammad Zarif had earlier contacted his Nigerian counterpart Geoffrey Onyeama to express his “deep concern” about Saturday’s events in the city of Zaria.

ISNA said at least 12 people were killed, with both sides blaming each other.

The Nigerian military said one of its convoys was attacked by followers of Ibrahim Zakzaky, the leader of the IMN.

“The sect numbering hundreds carrying dangerous weapons, barricaded the roads with bonfires, heavy stones and tyres,” an army statement said.

“The troops responsible for the safety and security of the Chief of Army Staff, on hearing explosions and firing, were left with no choice than to defend him and the convoy at all cost.”

Credit: Aljazeera

Nigerian Ambassador to US is Dead

Foremost diplomat and Nigerian Ambassador to the United States of America, Prof. Adebowale Ibidapo Adefuye is dead. He died on Thursday after suffering a seizure while being driven by his chauffeur in Washington D.C., the U.S. capital.

Sources said before he could get to the hospital, he gave up the ghost.

Last month, Adefuye, among several other Nigerian envoys, had been recalled by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He was expected to handover to the Consular General this month, pending the appointment of a new ambassador.

One of his last major assignments was to receive President Muhammadu Buhari and his delegation during the president’s three-day official visit to the U.S. last month.

Embassy officials, who confirmed his demise, said a send off reception was planned for him next Wednesday, but this will now be turned to a memorial service.

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