Gunfire erupts in Abuja as Nigerian Army engages IMN members near Banex Plaza

Panic and confusion gripped the Wuse district of Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, following an intense confrontation between Nigerian Army personnel and members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN).

The clash, which took place near the bustling Banex Plaza, was marked by sustained gunfire, sending residents and traders into a state of alarm.

Eyewitnesses reported a tense scene as soldiers engaged IMN members in a standoff that escalated into a violent exchange.

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.