Many Feared Killed As Police Disperse Shi’ite Procession in Abuja

Ufuoma Omojirhe

Nigerian police personnel have used teargas and suspected live ammunition on members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) during their Arbaeen Symbolic Trek on Sunday, August 25.

The crackdown led to several injuries and an unconfirmed number of fatalities.

The Arbaeen Trek, which began on Saturday, August 24, is held to honour and mourn the death of Imam Hussain (AS), iswho was executed in Karbala, present-day Iraq, in 680 CE. Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (SAWA) and brother of Imam Hassan ibn Ali (AS), is commemorated during this event.

The incident occurred at Wuse Market, where police forces aggressively confronted the IMN procession. Officers fired teargas and live rounds in an effort to break up the peaceful gathering, causing chaos as people fled the area. The exact number of casualties remains unclear as of now.

Sheikh Sidi Munir Mainasara Sokoto, representing the IMN, confirmed the violence, stating that those injured by gunfire were taken to a hospital, though the full extent of the casualties is still being assessed.

In a statement, Sokoto condemned the police’s actions, saying, “The police have violently attacked the Arba’een Symbolic Trek in Wuse District, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries. The police’s attempt to disperse the procession led to significant casualties.”

Sokoto also noted that security forces are apprehending mourners, and medical teams are attending to those critically hurt. Details on the number of deaths, injuries, and arrests will be provided later.

He added that the Arbaeen Trek held in Masaka and Zuba the previous day concluded peacefully, highlighting that the event was thoroughly checked for security before commencing.

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