Security Forces Disrupt Shi’ite Gathering in Abuja, Tension Rises
Abuja, Nigeria – February 20, 2025 – Security operatives in Abuja disrupted a religious gathering of Shi’a Muslims during the Maulud celebration, marking the birthday of Imam Mahdi. The intervention led to heightened tension among residents and followers of the Islamic sect.
Eyewitnesses reported that security personnel stormed the gathering, allegedly in a bid to prevent a public disturbance. This move, however, sparked panic, with attendees dispersing hurriedly to avoid confrontation. Some sources claim that tear gas was deployed to disperse the crowd.
A member of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), the group organizing the event, condemned the action, stating that the gathering was peaceful and did not pose any security threat. “We were exercising our religious rights in a lawful manner when the security forces arrived. Their actions were unprovoked and unnecessary,” said an IMN representative.
The Nigerian security agencies have yet to release an official statement regarding the disruption. However, past events suggest that authorities remain cautious about Shi’ite processions due to previous clashes with law enforcement, leading to casualties and arrests.
Residents in the affected areas expressed concerns about the repeated confrontations between security forces and the Shi’ite group. Some fear that such actions could escalate tensions and lead to further unrest in the capital city.
As of the time of this report, no confirmed casualties or arrests have been announced. The situation remains under close monitoring by human rights organizations and religious groups.
