Violent Clash Erupts Between Security Forces, IMN in Abuja
A violent confrontation broke out between security forces and members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) during the annual Quds procession on Friday at Banex Roundabout in Wuse 2, Abuja, Premium Times reports.
The procession, which commenced after Juma’at prayers, turned chaotic when security operatives attempted to halt the gathering.
Jafaar Gali, one of the leaders of the procession, said tensions escalated when soldiers confronted them.
“We were around Zenith Bank at Banex when some soldiers came to stop us,” Mr. Gali said. He admitted that some participants in the procession responded by hurling stones at the security personnel.
According to Mr. Gali, many IMN members were either killed or injured in the ensuing clash. Although his claim could not be independently verified, witnesses observed military vans evacuating individuals to an undisclosed location.
Another participant, who identified himself only as Muhammad, alleged that security forces used excessive force in dispersing the crowd. “The soldiers and police opened fire and arrested several people, including those who were not part of the procession,” he said.
Mr. Muhammad further disclosed that the bodies of some deceased IMN members had been taken to Mararaba, Nasarawa State.
As of press time, heavily armed soldiers and police officers were seen patrolling parts of Abuja, particularly the Wuse axis, to prevent further disturbances.
Efforts to obtain official statements from the security agencies were unsuccessful. Calls and messages sent to Josephine Adeh, spokesperson for the Abuja police command, and Onyenma Nwachukwu, spokesperson for the Defence Headquarters, went unanswered.
The Quds procession, held annually on the last Friday of Ramadan, is a global event in solidarity with Palestine against Israeli occupation. However, in Nigeria, the event has often led to confrontations, as the government classifies the IMN as a violent group, resulting in frequent clashes with security forces.
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