Four individuals are feared dead, and 20 others wounded in Kaduna following clashes involving members of the proscribed Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), also known as Shi’ites.
The incident occurred as the Shi’ites gathered in large numbers on Friday for a peaceful procession in Kaduna to observe the International Quds Day. However, law enforcement agents, particularly the Nigeria Police, intervened to disperse the procession.
Eyewitnesses reported tension escalating as shots were fired by the police to disband the protesters, causing panic among citizens and businesses along Ahmadu Bello Way, where the procession took place.
According to reports, gunfire during the clash resulted in the death of four IMN members and left approximately 20 others injured. The Kaduna State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Mansir Hasan, confirmed that three police personnel sustained injuries during the incident and were hospitalized.
ASP Hasan refuted claims that police officers killed IMN members, asserting that no live ammunition was used to disperse the procession.
Before the clash, Professor Dauda Nalado, a leader of IMN, highlighted the significance of the International Quds Day, an annual event observed during Ramadan. He emphasized the solidarity with Palestine against Israeli oppression and brutality.
Nalado condemned the recent violence in Palestine, calling for global condemnation and urging Nigeria to sever diplomatic ties with Israel. He also advocated for a permanent ceasefire and comprehensive measures for Palestinian freedom.
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