Shittes, Soldiers Clash in Abuja Turns Violent Leaving Many Dead, Others Injured
A violent clash broke out in Abuja’s Wuse neighborhood on yesterday after Jumat service when Shittes protest over bombings in Gaza Strip turned violent prompting the Army to fire live rounds.
The Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) members who were protesting peacefully before suddenly turning violent, hurling stones and missiles at cars and buildings until they got to the Banex Plaza where they clashed with soldiers. The United States embassy had issued a warning of imminent clashes with the secretary listing Banex Plaza as a flashpoint.
Eyewitnesses said that soldiers used live ammunition, which resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries. The number of casualties so far has not been revealed, but the reports stated that at least five people died and many others were injured.
The IMN organized the demonstration to mark the International Quds Day, a day of unity with oppressed masses globally, but particularly the Palestinians. The demonstrators were marching in an orderly procession from a mosque at Banex Plaza to Wuse market when they were blocked by an armored car and were assaulted by the army.
Nigerian Army spokesman Maj. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu authenticated the incident in a statement that the protesters turned violent and defied law and order, necessitating the shooting. This was disputed by the IMN, who argued that the protesters were peaceful and that the army had attacked them without provocation.
The IMN also called for an independent investigation into the incident and requested the authorities to ensure the constitutional right of peaceful assembly.
The US Embassy had warned of possible disruptions and clashes in its security alert, but the ensuing violence was unexpected and has put the Nigerian government under fire for how it handles protests and protects its citizens.
The incident is the latest in a series of altercations between the Nigerian Military and the IMN, which has been accused of abusing its powers and assaulting innocent individuals. The IMN vowed to continue protesting and called on the global community to condemn the actions of the Nigerian government.
