Gunfire rocks Abuja! soldiers, IMN members in fierce battle

Chaos erupted in Abuja on Thursday afternoon as members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) engaged in a violent clash with soldiers, resulting in an intense gun battle at the popular Banex Plaza.

The confrontation sent shockwaves through the city, forcing residents and traders to flee for safety.

The Nation reports that the bloody encounter came just hours after the United States Embassy issued a chilling security alert, warning its citizens of planned IMN protests in Abuja and other major cities on Friday.

The advisory, released earlier in the day, had cautioned that the demonstrations could trigger roadblocks, traffic congestion, and violent confrontations.

“The Islamic Movement of Nigeria has called for demonstrations in Abuja and other major cities on Friday, March 28, 2025. Heavy traffic and other disruptions are possible. Based on past occurrences, protests may involve roadblocks, checkpoints, traffic congestion, and physical confrontations,” the embassy warned.

The advisory also identified key locations where protests were expected, including Banex Plaza—where violence erupted—along with Berger Junction, Unity Fountain, the National Human Rights Commission Head Office, Eagle Square, and several major mosques.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as gunfire rang out between the IMN members and soldiers, with bullets flying and people scrambling for cover.

“It was like a war zone. People were screaming and running in all directions. Nobody knew what was happening,” a terrified trader recounted.

The level of casualties remains unclear, but tension in the capital is at an all-time high ahead of the anticipated Friday demonstrations. Security forces have been placed on high alert, and the situation remains fluid.