A violent confrontation unfolded Thursday afternoon at Banex Plaza in Abuja, as members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) clashed with Nigerian soldiers.
The altercation quickly escalated into a gun battle, sparking panic across the city.
The unrest came just hours after the United States Embassy in Nigeria issued a security alert, warning American citizens of planned IMN protests scheduled for Friday, March 28, 2025, in Abuja and other major cities.
The embassy advised its citizens to exercise caution, highlighting the likelihood of disruptions including roadblocks, traffic congestion, and possible physical confrontations during the protests.
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According to the embassy’s advisory, the IMN has called for protests across Abuja, with Banex Plaza, Berger Junction, Unity Fountain, and several other key locations listed as potential hotspots.
The alert emphasized that based on previous protests, participants may set up roadblocks and checkpoints, causing significant disruptions and posing a risk of violent clashes.
As of the latest updates, the full details of the Banex Plaza altercation remain unclear, with authorities yet to provide a comprehensive account of the incident.
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