At least five people lost their lives, and several others sustained injuries after security forces fired on Shi’ite protesters during an International Quds Day procession in Abuja on Friday.
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The annual event, observed on the last Friday of Ramadan, was organized by members of the Islamic Movement to express solidarity with Palestinians.
Eyewitnesses said the procession, which started at Banex Plaza in Wuse 2, turned violent when security operatives intervened. A senior member of the group stated that they initially planned to gather at the National Mosque but changed locations due to security concerns.
After being blocked near Wuse Market, they proceeded towards Banex Plaza, where security forces allegedly opened fire on unarmed demonstrators, including women and children.
The Shi’ite leader claimed the crackdown might have been influenced by a government directive. He alleged that a confidential memo from the National Security Adviser had been sent to security agencies across the country, though its authenticity could not be verified.
Authorities have yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident.
