By Okafor Joseph Afam
August 25, 2024

Abuja was thrown into chaos on Sunday, August 25, 2024, as members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), popularly known as the Shi’ite group, clashed with security forces, resulting in the tragic death of two police officers. Several others were injured in the confrontation, which took place in the heart of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The altercation began when IMN members took to the streets in a protest that quickly turned violent. The group, which has had a history of clashes with Nigerian security forces, was reportedly staging a demonstration to demand the release of their leader, Sheikh Ibrahim El-Zakzaky, who has been in custody since 2015.

Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with sounds of gunfire echoing through the streets as the situation escalated. According to reports, the Shi’ite members were armed with dangerous weapons, including stones, sticks, and even firearms. The police, in an attempt to disperse the protesters, engaged them with tear gas and live ammunition.

In the ensuing melee, two policemen were fatally wounded, succumbing to their injuries before they could receive medical attention. Several other officers sustained varying degrees of injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. The identities of the deceased officers have not yet been released, pending notification of their families.

The clash also resulted in significant disruptions to traffic and business activities in the area, as panicked residents and commuters fled the scene to avoid being caught in the crossfire. Shops and businesses in the vicinity of the protest were forced to close, and many residents expressed fear for their safety in the wake of the violence.

The FCT Police Command has condemned the attack, describing it as unprovoked and a severe breach of public peace. In a statement released to the press, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Josephine Adeh, vowed that those responsible for the violence would be brought to justice. She also called for calm among Abuja residents, assuring them that the situation was under control.

Meanwhile, the leadership of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria has accused the police of using excessive force against their members, leading to the tragic loss of life. The group maintains that their protests are peaceful and that they were exercising their constitutional right to free assembly.

This latest clash has raised concerns about the continuing tensions between the IMN and Nigerian security forces, with many observers calling for a peaceful resolution to the long-standing conflict. The incident has also sparked fears of further violence in the capital, as security forces remain on high alert.

As the nation mourns the loss of the two policemen, there is a growing call for dialogue between the government and the IMN to prevent further bloodshed and restore peace in the troubled region. The situation in Abuja remains tense, with residents anxiously awaiting further developments.

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