Nineteen suspects arrested as Shiites, security operative clash in Abuja

Members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) and security operatives clashed on Friday afternoon, resulting in a gun battle at the popular Banex Plaza, Abuja. One security operative was killed, and several others were left injured in the incident.

It was gathered that the confrontation erupted when security forces attempted to prevent Shi’ite protesters from participating in an International Quds Day procession, leading to multiple injuries.

According to findings, thousands of IMN members had gathered to mark the last Friday of Ramadan in solidarity with Palestinians.

Military forces, using armored vehicles, blocked the procession route after Jummah prayers.

The clash occurred just hours after the United States Embassy in Nigeria issued a security alert, warning its citizens about planned IMN protests in Abuja and other major cities on Friday.

In the advisory, the US Embassy cautioned that demonstrations could result in disruptions such as roadblocks, traffic congestion, and possible confrontations.

“The Islamic Movement of Nigeria has called for demonstrations in Abuja and other major cities on Friday, March 28, 2025. Heavy traffic and other disruptions are possible. Based on past occurrences, protests may involve roadblocks, checkpoints, traffic congestion, and physical confrontations,” the embassy stated.

The security warning listed potential protest locations, including Banex Plaza, Berger Junction, Unity Fountain, the National Human Rights Commission Head Office, Eagle Square, Area 10 Shopping Plaza, the National Mosque, Al-Noor Mosque, and Fouad Lababidi Mosque.

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A senior IMN member, who requested anonymity, explained: “Today is International Quds Day, the last Friday of Ramadan. We always show solidarity with Palestine on this occasion. This morning, we saw a memo from the National Security Adviser instructing security forces to act. We initially planned to gather at the National Mosque, but it was occupied. To avoid confrontation, we moved toward the Customs Office, but security forces blocked us near Wuse Market. We proceeded toward Banex Plaza, where no security presence was observed.

“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 and blocked the road. Many people were injured, and security forces detained several others.

“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 disrupted commercial activity at Banex Plaza.

Reacting to the incident, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, issued a statement to newsmen:

“The Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, CP Ajao Saka Adewale, psc, mnips, has unequivocally condemned the unprovoked attack on security operatives by members of the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), also known as the Shi’ites.

“On March 28, 2025, at approximately 2:20 PM, the FCT Police Command received a distress call reporting a violent assault on security personnel by IMN members armed with firearms, cutlasses, catapults, sticks, stones, petrol bombs, and other lethal weapons in the Banex Area, Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse 2.

“Upon swift deployment to the scene, police and security personnel encountered intense gunfire from the attackers, resulting in serious injuries to three security operatives. They were promptly transported to the National Hospital, where one was tragically pronounced dead.

“Nineteen suspects have been arrested in connection with this incident, while others managed to escape. Normalcy has since been fully restored, and investigations are ongoing to ensure that all perpetrators are brought to justice. CP Ajao Saka Adewale emphasized that actions are being implemented to apprehend those responsible for this heinous act.

“The Commissioner warns that attacks on security operatives who risk their lives to protect citizens will not be tolerated. He urges residents to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement agencies.”