A violent clash between members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), also known as Shi’ites, and soldiers erupted on Thursday afternoon at the busy Banex Plaza in Abuja, leading to a fierce gun battle.
The confrontation came 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. The embassy had cautioned that the demonstrations could cause roadblocks, traffic congestion, and possible violence.
“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 advisory stated.
Potential protest hotspots listed in the security warning included 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.
As of the time of filing this report, details of casualties remain unclear. Efforts to get a statement from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, were unsuccessful, as calls and messages were not returned.
More details to follow.
