Less than three weeks the members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) better known as Shi’ites invaded the National Assembly in Abuja, the group has in the early hours of Monday once again stormed the Federal lawmaking chamber shouting “Allahu Akbar” meaning God is great.
They reportedly set ablaze emergency van of the National Emergency Management Agency and a Deputy Police Commissioner has been reportedly killed.
Members of the Islamic Movement had taken to the streets of Abuja to demand the release of Ibrahim Zakzaky, their leader, who has been in detention since 2015.
The protest, which began from NITEL junction at Wuse zone 2, was disrupted by armed policemen who cordoned off the road leading to the national assembly and three arms zone.
Bullets were fired at the protesters as they advanced towards the Eagle Square. The police chased the protesters all over the streets shooting sporadically.
The situation sparked tension as workers fled while motorists abandoned their vehicles on the road.
Frank Mba, force spokesman, later issued a statement, asking residents of Abuja to be calm.
“There is a violent protest currently ongoing by members of the El-Zakzakky Group in some parts of the FCT – particularly the Central Business District and the Three Arms Zone. The Police are taking adequate measures to bring the situation under control,” he said.
“Citizens are advised to remain calm and avoid the affected areas in the interim. The Police will keep the public abreast with further development.”
Header Image Credit: punchng.com