A clash between police and members of the proscribed Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), commonly known as Shiites, resulted in the tragic deaths of a trader and two police officers in Wuse Market, Abuja.
The trader, identified as Amiru, was fatally shot in the chest while attempting to flee as police pursued the protesters near Chateau De La-Rey in Wuse Zone 6. Reports indicate that three police vehicles were also set ablaze during the unrest.
Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene, with the A&E unit at Zone 3 hospital overwhelmed by casualties. The victim succumbed to his injuries while being transferred to Maitama District hospital.
The IMN members were participating in an Arbaeen demonstration to mark the 40th day following the Ashura anniversary. The protest escalated as demonstrators threw stones, seized weapons from police, and forced officers to retreat.
In response, Josephine Adeh, the spokesperson for the Abuja police, confirmed the attack, stating, “The FCT police command has confirmed an unprovoked assault by the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria. The attackers, armed with machetes, improvised explosive devices, and knives, targeted police personnel at Wuse Junction.”
She added that the Commissioner of Police, CP Benneth C. Igweh, condemned the attack and assured that those responsible would face justice. The situation has been brought under control, and normalcy has been restored.
