On November 16, 2023, a clash between the police and members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), also known as Shi’ites, occurred in Kaduna, resulting in the deaths of two individuals. The clash took place during a protest organized by the Shi’ites in support of Palestinians amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine.
The protest started peacefully as hundreds of Shi’ite members marched through the streets of Kaduna, condemning Israeli attacks on Palestinians.
However, the situation escalated when stones and pebbles were thrown in different directions, causing chaos and forcing the police to intervene.
The police reportedly dispersed the protesters using live bullets, which resulted in the deaths of two individuals.
The Kaduna Police Command confirmed that one person was killed during the clash, blaming the IMN members for the violence.
The police claimed that the Shi’ites blocked major roads, disrupted social and economic activities, and attacked the police with stones and dangerous objects.
The Shi’ites, on the other hand, countered the police’s claims, stating that the police killed two of their members during the clash.
The Shi’ite protesters were demonstrating their support for the “oppressed” people of Palestine and condemning the Israeli-Hamas war in the Middle East.
They accused Israel of committing genocide, ethnic cleansing, and apartheid against unarmed civilians, including women, children, and the elderly.
The protesters also criticized the international community, particularly the United Nations, for remaining silent and providing support to Israel.
They called on people worldwide to voice their support for the Palestinians and condemn Israel’s actions.
The Kaduna State Government had previously outlawed the IMN and prohibited all forms of protest in the state.
The police stated that the IMN is a proscribed organization in Kaduna State, justifying their actions to disperse the protesters.
The police spokesperson emphasized that the clash occurred because the IMN members started firing at the police and attacked innocent civilians passing by.