Fatalities reported as Police clash with Shiites during International Quds Day procession in Kaduna

Tragedy struck in Kaduna on Friday as clashes between law enforcement authorities and members of the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), commonly known as Shiites, turned violent, resulting in at least four reported deaths. The incident occurred during a procession organized by the Shiites to commemorate International Quds Day.

Eyewitnesses revealed that the Shiites gathered in large numbers near the Katsina roundabout along Ahmadu Bello Way in Kaduna metropolis. However, tensions escalated when the police moved in to disperse the procession, leading to a confrontation.

According to reports, shots were fired by the police to scatter the protesters, causing panic and unrest among citizens, particularly those with businesses in the area. The clashes left at least 20 people injured, with conflicting reports regarding the casualties on both sides.

While the Police Public Relations Officer in Kaduna, ASP Mansir Hasan, stated that three police personnel sustained injuries and were hospitalized, he denied reports of fatalities among the IMN members, asserting that live ammunition was not used against the protesters.

During the procession, Professor Dauda Nalado, a member of the IMN, highlighted the significance of International Quds Day, which is observed annually during Ramadan. He condemned the actions of the Israeli government against Palestinians and called for international condemnation and intervention to stop the ongoing violence and oppression in the region.

Nalado urged Nigeria to sever diplomatic ties with Israel and called for a permanent ceasefire and comprehensive measures for the freedom of Palestine. He also thanked countries and groups supporting the Palestinian cause while condemning the alleged support of the United States and the United Kingdom for the Israeli government’s actions.

The clashes in Kaduna underscore the deep-rooted tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and highlight the challenges faced by authorities in managing protests and demonstrations with potential security risks.