Kaduna state governor, Nasir El Rufai, has banned all forms of procession in the state.

In a statewide broadcast made on Thursday, El-Rufai also announced the formation of a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to look into the clash between the Army and the Islamic Movement in Nigeria.

“We have witnessed sad events in Zaria. There have been tragic consequences and needless loss of lives, and we extend our condolences to the families that have been affected.

“In this sombre moment, the government has directed that steps be taken to address the humanitarian fallouts of the security operations.

“Everyone has a fundamental right to their faiths and beliefs, but no one has any right to practice their faith in ways that diminish, distress or inconvenience others.

“Henceforth, no person or group, under any guise will be allowed to block any road, obstruct public highways, occupy public facilities or inconvenience citizens in Kaduna State.

“Anybody that needs to march may do so, but they cannot take over public facilities or disrupt social services and commercial activities in Kaduna State, and any march or procession can be undertaken only with the prior knowledge of, and protection of the police to prevent the breakdown of law and order

“My government has learnt from security reports the facts that are known, as well as complaints and allegations that have been made.

“My government is persuaded that the interests of accountability and transparency are best served by a judicial commission of inquiry that will allow all claims to be tested with judicial rigour.

“The commission of inquiry is to be set up under the Tribunals of Inquiry Act. It will examine the immediate and remote causes of the Zaria incident, and assemble a factual and authoritative account that the government can study and act upon.

“I will not tolerate any escalation of lawlessness. My government will continue to invest heavily in security as a foundation for the successful execution of our economic and social agenda to develop Kaduna State.”