At least five people were feared dead and many others injured after security forces clashed with Shi’ite protesters in Abuja on Friday. The confrontation occurred during the International Quds Day procession, an annual event where members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) express solidarity with Palestine.
The protest took place near Banex Plaza in Wuse 2, where thousands had gathered for the procession after their Jummah prayers. Security forces, including military personnel with armored vehicles, reportedly blocked the route and later opened fire on the demonstrators.
A senior member of the IMN, who spoke anonymously, described how the protest unfolded. He explained that the group initially planned to gather at the National Mosque but decided to move toward the Customs Office when security forces occupied the mosque. However, they encountered a roadblock near Wuse Market and altered their route again, heading toward Banex Plaza.
“The situation escalated quickly,” he said.
“Thousands had gathered from across the country. After Jummah prayers, we began our procession. As we passed Banner Junction, the military started shooting. Only the military were present—there were no police officers. They brought an armored vehicle, blocked the road, and fired indiscriminately at unarmed civilians, including women and children. So far, five people are confirmed dead, many are injured, and security forces have detained several others. An eyewitness saw a Hilux van carrying a body. We are relocating to safety.”
The Shi’ite leader noted that they had received a memo allegedly instructing security forces to act against the procession. However, he stated that they could not confirm its authenticity.
“We saw the memo but have not confirmed its authenticity. The version we received was stamped, signed, and secretly sent to the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps. Security agencies nationwide received it, particularly in areas where processions were expected. Yet, only Abuja witnessed violence.”
The violence caused panic in the area, disrupting business activities at Banex Plaza. Initially, social media reports mentioned one death, but the IMN later confirmed five casualties. Several people were also reportedly arrested.
Another eyewitness, Terlula Michael, an engineer who works at Banex Plaza, provided a different account of the events.
“I saw protesters throwing stones at civilian vehicles—how is that peaceful?” he questioned.
The U.S. Embassy had previously warned of possible unrest linked to IMN demonstrations. However, as of the time of this report, neither the military nor the government had released an official statement regarding the deadly clash.
Calls for accountability have grown louder, with many demanding an explanation for the military’s actions. A Shi’ite leader questioned why the Nigerian government would suppress a pro-Palestine demonstration when the country’s Foreign Affairs Minister had recently supported Palestinian freedom at a Muslim congress in Saudi Arabia.
“This was the military. The leadership must explain why this happened. Two weeks ago, the Foreign Affairs Minister supported Palestinian freedom at a Muslim congress in Saudi Arabia. Every human being should stand for Palestinian rights, yet here, people are attacked for doing the same. More details will follow,” he said.
