Many dead as Shiite muslims, soldiers clash in Abuja

A violent confrontation erupted on Friday between members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), also known as the Shiite group, and personnel of the Nigerian Army in Abuja during a procession marking International Quds Day.

Diaspora Digital Media gathered that the clash reportedly left several Shiite members injured and dead, though the exact number of casualties remains unconfirmed.

While the Shiites accused the army of unprovoked brutality, the military claimed the protesters turned violent and disrupted public order.

*Shiites’ account of the Incident

Sheikh Sokoto, a spokesperson for the IMN, stated that the procession was part of a global event observed in solidarity with Palestinians, as designated by the late Imam Khomeini.

He said similar processions were held in countries like Britain, France, the U.S., Germany, and others.

According to Sokoto, the Nigerian Army’s Guards Brigade allegedly opened fire on peaceful protesters, including women and minors, as they marched from a mosque in Banex Plaza toward Wuse Market after Friday prayers.

“The army blocked the way with an armored vehicle and started shooting at protesters.

“Many sustained life-threatening gunshot wounds, and eyewitnesses reported at least five deaths, though we are still verifying the exact figures,” he said.

Sokoto condemned the incident as part of a pattern of security forces targeting civilians exercising their constitutional rights.

The IMN called for an independent investigation and urged authorities to respect the right to peaceful assembly.

*Army’s Response
The Nigerian Army’s spokesperson, Maj. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, confirmed the clash but denied initiating the violence.

“There was a protest by Shiites; I don’t know what it was about. They became violent, disrupted law and order, and engaged the troops. There was an exchange of fire, but I can’t confirm casualties,” he said.

The IMN demanded accountability, stating:

“We call on relevant authorities to investigate this incident and ensure citizens’ rights are protected. Peaceful assembly is an inalienable constitutional right that must not be violated.”

The past

The clash adds to a history of tensions between the Shiite group and Nigerian security forces.

Previous clashes between Shiites and the Nigerian Army have resulted in significant loss of life and human rights abuses.

One notable incident occurred in December 2015, when Nigerian army soldiers killed hundreds of Shia Muslim members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) over the course of three days.

This incident has been widely condemned, with Human Rights Watch labeling it “wholly unjustified.”

The clashes between the Shiites and the Nigerian Army often stem from the group’s demand for the release of their leader, Sheikh Ibrahim El-Zakzaky, who has been detained since 2015.

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