In a tragic turn of events, a clash between members of the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria, also known as Shiites, and the police in Kaduna State has resulted in the loss of lives and injuries.

The confrontation occurred as Shiite members gathered to observe the International Quds Day, a significant event in their calendar.

According to reports, tensions escalated when the police attempted to disperse the Shiite procession near the Katsina roundabout along Ahmadu Bello Way. The attempt to control the situation led to shots being fired, causing chaos and unrest among citizens and businesses in the area.

Professor Dauda Nalado, a member of the Islamic Movement, confirmed the death of at least four Shiite members and an unspecified number of injuries. He alleged that the police opened fire on the peaceful procession, triggering the violent clash.

The International Quds Day, established by the late global Islamic leader Imam Ruhullah Al-Musawi Al-Khomeini, aims to show solidarity with the oppressed people of Palestine and condemn the actions of the Israeli government. The Shiite community, under the leadership of Ibraheem Ya’qoub El-Zakzaky, has been observing this day for decades in Nigeria.

This incident reignites tensions surrounding the Shiite movement’s support for the Palestinian cause, which has previously led to clashes and the infamous Zaria massacre in 2015.