Police, Shiites Clash in Abuja

There was a clash on Monday between the police and members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) at the Federal Secretariat complex in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory.

The Shiite members had stormed the area to protest the released of their leader Ibraheem El-Zakzaky, and his wife from the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).

The angry protesters were said to have grounded the complex and taken over the roads in the area, just a few metres from the Presidential Villa and the National Assembly complex.

They were reportedly armed with stones, daring the security operatives that were earlier deployed in the area to dislodge them.

A source, however, confirmed to Channels Television via telephone that a team of policemen swiftly arrived at the scene to disperse the protesting Shiite members.

The protesters were removed from the area with tear gas and water cannon, while the Shiites also destroyed a police vehicle.

Monday’s incident is the latest in the series of clashes between both parties this year.

More to follow…