Tensions in Abuja: Clashes Between Security Forces and Islamic Movement During Pro-Palestinian Protest

Edition : Africa Eye

Clashes broke out in Abuja on Friday between Nigerian security forces and members of the Islamic Movement, commonly referred to as Shiites, during a protest held at Banex Junction in the Wuse 2 district. Demonstrators waved Palestinian flags and chanted pro-Palestine slogans, including “Freedom for Palestine.”

According to eyewitnesses, tensions escalated when some protesters began throwing stones at the security personnel, prompting officers to fire shots in an attempt to disperse the crowd. The exact number of casualties remains unclear, though local sources reported fatalities and injuries.

Videos circulating on social media show large groups of demonstrators marching through the streets of Wuse 2, while witnesses described chaotic scenes as security forces intervened.

Authorities have yet to issue an official statement, and attempts to contact Josephine Adeh, spokesperson for the Federal Capital Territory police, were unsuccessful.

Sidi Munir Sokoto, spokesperson for the Islamic Movement, condemned the security response as a “serious abuse of power,” claiming that at least five protesters may have been killed, though the number could not be independently confirmed.

“This tragic incident once again demonstrates the excessive use of force by security forces against civilians who were merely exercising their constitutional right to peaceful protest,” he said, calling for an immediate investigation and urging authorities to uphold citizens’ fundamental rights.