ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-The Islamic Movement in Nigeria, also known as the Shiites, has alleged that five of its members were killed during a clash with Nigerian Army personnel on Friday.
Reports indicate that the confrontation occurred during a procession marking International Quds Day in Abuja, with several injuries and at least five fatalities reported by the group.
A leader of the movement, Sheikh Sidi Sokoto, claimed that the attack was unprovoked.
He said, “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.
“Quds Day processions and activities are being conducted globally in Britain, France, America, Germany, Australia, Sweden, Canada, and numerous countries in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East.
READ ALSO: Boko Haram Attack Borno, Kill Two Raze Church, Homes
“We wish to draw the attention of the general public to the fact that a team of Nigerian Army personnel (the Guards Brigade) attacked the procession using live ammunition. Many sustained gunshot wounds, some of which were life-threatening, while others lost their lives due to the brutality.”
Sokoto insisted that the group was not violent and had been marching peacefully.
He said, “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, most of whom were women and minors.”
“This incident is the latest in a series of similar events where security forces have abused their power by targeting innocent civilians exercising their legal rights.
“As of the time of writing this, we could not confirm the exact number of those killed, injured, or arrested. However, based on reliable information from eyewitnesses, the number of those killed is around five. Nevertheless, we will update the public in due course.”
He called for an independent investigation into the incident and urged authorities to respect the constitutional right to peaceful assembly.
However, the Nigerian Army countered the claims, stating that the Shiite members turned violent, disrupted public order, and engaged security personnel during the procession.
Army spokesperson Maj. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu confirmed the confrontation, saying, “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.”