Tension rocks Abuja as Nigerian Army clashes with IMN members near Banex Plaza

The Wuse area of Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, was thrown into chaos as gunfire erupted during a confrontation between Nigerian Army personnel and members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN).

The incident, which occurred near the popular Banex Plaza, sparked panic among residents and businesses in the vicinity.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing sustained gunshots as security forces engaged the IMN members, leading to heightened tension in the area.

While the exact cause of the clash remains unclear, such confrontations have become a recurring occurrence in Abuja, particularly involving the IMN, whose protests often lead to confrontations with security operatives.

A witness in the area described the chaos to SaharaReporters, saying, “It’s been a rain of sporadic gunfire by the Nigerian Army around Austoma Petrol Station and the Banex axis on Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse 2, Abuja.”

According to the source, parts of the road have been cordoned off, possibly to track down IMN protesters attempting to evade security forces.

“I had to abandon my car at the Ahmadu Bello/Aminu Kano Crescent traffic light because of the shootings,” the source added.

The confrontation comes just hours after the United States Embassy in Nigeria issued a security advisory, warning its citizens of planned IMN demonstrations in Abuja and other major cities on Friday.

The advisory cautioned that the protests could lead to roadblocks, traffic congestion, and potential clashes. “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 incidents, protests may involve roadblocks, checkpoints, traffic congestion, and physical confrontations,” the embassy stated.

Identified potential protest hotspots include 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.