Members of the group are demanding the release of their leader and his wife from detention
ABUJA, July 23 (NNN-AGENCIES) — At least four people were killed in the capital following clashes between security forces and members of the Shiite Islamic Movement of Nigeria, according to the group.
Demonstrators again took to the streets of Abuja on Monday demanding the release of their leader Ibrahim el-Zakzaky – in detention since 2015 – following reports of worsening health conditions of both he and his wife who is also being held.
Mahdi Garba, a member of the Shiite movement, said that the protest started peacefully with supporters chanting “Free Zakzaky” but their members were attacked by the police.
“The total number of casualties is yet to be ascertained but for now four persons confirmed dead and many injured,” Garba said.
An eyewitness Fakhuus Hashim said police fired live ammunition and tear gas canisters at the protesters in an area that houses the parliament building, executive, and judicial arm.
“Everyone started running and more shots were fired. They [protesters] burned the fire service station beside the ministry of foreign affairs,” he added.
Nigerian police said a senior officer was killed and three other policemen were injured during street battles.
“The heavily armed protesters … violently attacked innocent citizens and police personnel on duty. In the process, the deputy commissioner of police … was shot and fatally injured by the protesters,” a police statement said.
Fifty-four suspects face charges, it said. — NNN-AGENCIES