A violent confrontation erupted on Thursday afternoon at the popular Banex Plaza in Abuja between members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) and soldiers, leading to a gun battle. The clash took place just hours after the United States Embassy in Nigeria issued a security alert about planned IMN protests in the capital and other major cities on Friday, March 28, 2025.
In its advisory, the US Embassy warned its citizens about the potential disruptions caused by the protests, which are expected to include roadblocks, traffic congestion, and possible confrontations. The embassy also highlighted that protests could involve physical confrontations, checkpoints, and the disruption of daily activities, based on previous demonstrations by the IMN.
The security alert identified key protest locations, including Banex Plaza, Berger Junction, Unity Fountain, the National Human Rights Commission Head Office, Eagle Square, Area 10 Shopping Plaza, the National Mosque, Al-Noor Mosque, and Fouad Lababidi Mosque.
At the time of reporting, details about the clash between the IMN members and soldiers remain unclear. Efforts to reach the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Public Relations Officer, SO Josephine Adeh, for a comment were unsuccessful, as calls and messages went unanswered.
The situation has raised concerns about the potential for further unrest during the IMN's planned protests on Friday, as the security alert continues to remain in effect.
