Two men of the Nigerian Police Force(NPF) have been reported dead following a clash between the Police and members of the Shia branch of Islam, otherwise known as Shi’ites.

The deaths occurred on Sunday, August 25, 2024 during a demonstration by the group in the Wuse District of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja.

Checks by Kristina Reports indicate that the incident claimed multiple lives with left several others injured and scarred at different degrees. The confrontation led to a gun duel and destroyed two police vehicles.

A statement signed by Sheikh Sidi Munir Mainasara Sokoto, on behalf of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria under the leadership of Sayyid Ibraheem Ya’qoub El-Zakzaky noted that the Police interfered with the religious march and attacked the participants.

The statement further noted that the participants simply defended themselves against the men of the Nigerian Police.

“We wish to inform the public that police have attacked the ongoing Arba’een Symbolic Trek at Wuse District in Abuja and killed numerous mourners.”

“While trying to disperse the Arbaeen Trek, the police killed and injured numerous mourners. Presently, security agents are busy arresting the Arbaeen Trek mourners.”

“Before the commencement of the trek, we have searched all participants to ensure no infiltration, and the programme will end as scheduled.”

Reacting to the development The FCT Police Command, in a statement issued by Commissioner of Police, Benneth Igweh, confirmed that two of its personnel were killed during the confrontation.

He noted that the organization launched an unprovoked attack on the police checkpoint, using machetes, improvised explosive devices such as bottles filled with kerosene and homemade bombs, and knives.

He added that several arrests have since been made and those responsible for the act will be brought to book.

“The FCT Police Command wishes to confirm an unprovoked attack by the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria, popularly known as the ‘Shiite’ group, on some personnel of the Nigeria Police Force attached to FCT command at Wuse Junction by the traffic light, where two police personnel were killed, three left unconscious in the hospital, and three police patrol vehicles set ablaze.”

It is worthy of note that this incident is not the first of its kind in the FCT. In 2018, the Nigerian Army accused members of the Shi’ite sect of attacking soldiers and policemen on duty at Kugbo/Karu check point in Abuja.