At least five members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) also referred to as the Shiites were reportedly killed during a confrontation with Nigerian Army officers in Abuja on Friday. The clash happened during a procession marking International Quds Day—an annual event held in solidarity with oppressed people specifically Palestinians.
Sheikh Sidi Sokoto, a leader of the group accused the military of launching an unjustified attack on the peaceful march. The participants, according to him included women and minors, who were heading toward Wuse Market after observing Juma’at prayers at Banex Plaza when soldiers blocked their route and opened fire. He further claimed that numerous members sustained gunshot wounds; some of them life-threatening.
Sokoto, while agitating for an independent investigation decried what he characterized as repeated cases of security operatives violating the rights of citizens. However, the Nigerian Army defended its actions—asserting that the protesters turned violent, disrupted public order and engaged troops in an exchange of fire. Army spokesman Maj. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu said he could not confirm any casualties.
