At least five people were feared dead after security forces clashed with Shi’ite protesters in Abuja on Friday. The confrontation happened during an International Quds Day procession, where members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) gathered to show support for Palestinians.
The violence broke out near Banex Plaza in Wuse 2, shortly after Jummah (Friday) prayers. Eyewitnesses said the military used armoured vehicles to block the protest route before opening fire on the demonstrators.
A senior IMN member, speaking anonymously, explained that the group initially planned to meet at the National Mosque but changed location to avoid conflict. “We moved towards the Customs Office, but security forces stopped us near Wuse Market. We then headed for Banex Plaza, where no security was present,” he said.
However, things quickly turned violent. “As soon as we reached Banner Junction, the military started shooting. There were no police officers, only soldiers. They blocked the road with an armoured vehicle and fired at unarmed civilians, including women and children. So far, five people have died, many are injured, and some have been arrested,” he added.
The IMN leader suggested the crackdown may have been planned. “We saw a memo from the National Security Adviser instructing security forces to act. Security agencies across the country received it, but only Abuja witnessed violence.”
He also questioned the government’s stance, pointing out that just two weeks ago, Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister expressed support for Palestine at a Muslim conference in Saudi Arabia.
While IMN members blamed the military for the violence, another witness, Terlula Michael, an engineer working at Banex Plaza, had a different view. “I saw protesters throwing stones at civilian vehicles. How is that peaceful?” he asked.
The U.S. Embassy had earlier warned of possible unrest linked to IMN demonstrations. However, as of press time, neither the military nor the government had released an official statement on the incident.
