A clash between police officers and members of the proscribed Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), also known as Shiites, has turned deadly at Wuse Market in Abuja, resulting in the deaths of a trader and two police officers.
The incident occurred when the IMN members embarked on an Arbaeen procession, commemorating the 40th day after the Ashura anniversary.
The peaceful demonstration quickly escalated into violence as police officers attempted to disperse the protesters using tear gas and live ammunition.
According to Daily Trust, witnesses report that Amiru, a trader and bystander, was shot in the chest while trying to flee from the chaos.
He was rushed to Zone 3 hospital but succumbed to his injuries while being transferred to Maitama District Hospital.
According to eyewitnesses, the situation intensified when the protesters retaliated by pelting the police with stones and seizing their weapons.
The clash further escalated as the demonstrators overpowered the police and set fire to three police vehicles.
The police continued to fire tear gas and live rounds to disperse the protesters and control the situation.
However, bystanders and vendors were caught in the crossfire, adding to the panic and confusion in the area.
Reacting to the development, Josephine Adeh, spokesperson of the police in Abuja, said, “The FCT police command wishes to confirm an unprovoked attack by the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria, popularly known as the ‘Shi’ite’ group, on some personnel of the Nigeria Police Force attached to FCT command at Wuse Junction by traffic light, where two (2) police personnel were killed, three left unconscious in the hospital, and three (3) Police patrol vehicles set ablaze.
“The proscribed organisation attacked the police checkpoint unprovoked, wielding machetes, improvised explosive devices (locally made bombs in bottles with kerosene), and knives.
“While several arrests have been effected, the Commissioner of Police FCT, CP Benneth C. Igweh, Psc. mni. Condemns the unprovoked attack on Police officers. He promises to bring those involved to book. The situation is presently under control and normalcy restored.”
