The Islamic Movement in Nigeria also known as the Shiites, has accused the Nigerian Army of killing at least five of its members during a confrontation in Abuja on Friday.
The clash reportedly occurred during the Shiites’ annual International Quds Day procession, which commemorates global solidarity with Palestinians.
According to the group, the incident left several members injured, with some suffering life-threatening gunshot wounds.
A leader of the movement, Sheikh Sidi Sokoto, alleged that soldiers attacked the procession without provocation.
“Today, being the last Friday of the sacred month of Ramadan 1446H, marks International Quds Day, a day designated by Imam Khomeini as a day of significance in solidarity with the oppressed people of the world, particularly the Palestinians,” Sokoto stated.
He noted that similar processions were held in countries such as the UK, US, Germany, and Canada without incident. However, he claimed that in Nigeria, soldiers from the Guards Brigade blocked the march near Banex Plaza and opened fire on unarmed participants, including women and children.
“There was no form of provocation from the participants warranting the brutality. They were marching peacefully from a mosque in Banex Plaza, where they had observed the Juma’at prayer, heading towards Wuse Market. The army blocked the way with an armoured vehicle and started shooting at the participants,” he alleged.
The group condemned what it described as repeated crackdowns on its activities and called for an independent investigation into the incident.
However, the Nigerian Army defended its actions, claiming that the Shiite protesters became violent and disrupted public order.
Army spokesman, Maj. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, confirmed the confrontation but could not verify reports of casualties.
“There was a protest by the Shiites; I don’t know what it was all about. They became violent, disrupted law and order, and started engaging the troops. I learned there was an exchange of fire but can’t confirm if there were any casualties,” he said.
