The United States Embassy has said it is concerned by the deaths resulting from clashes between Nigerian security forces and members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria in areas surrounding Abuja.
The IMN, also known as Shiites, had over a period of three days clashed with the police and Nigerian Army in the Federal Capital Territory.
While the IMN said 45 of its members were killed, the Nigerian Army said only three persons died.
The US Embassy in a statement on Friday urged the Government to conduct thorough investigation into the clashes.
It said: “We urge Government of Nigeria authorities to conduct a thorough investigation of the events and to take appropriate action to hold accountable those responsible for violations of Nigerian law.
“We urge restraint on all sides.”