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| Free Palestine protesters face Nigerian security crackdown. |
On March 28, 2025 a protest was held in Abuja. The demonstration marked the International Quds Day. The protest was meant to show support for Palestinian freedom. This year, the day was marked by events in 17 Nigerian states.
The Islamic Movement in Nigeria claims the protest turned violent. The group said the Guards Brigade attacked the protest at Usman Bin Affan Mosque. They allege that 26 protesters lost their lives during the attack. One part of the statement even claims 27 deaths. This difference in count must be noted and verified by further reports.
The group also said that the police detained 274 protesters. Among them, 60 were minors and 11 were in critical condition. The press release came from a leader of the movement. The statement was signed by Shaikh Sidi Munir Mainasara.
Officials have given mixed signals about the incident. Nigeria’s Foreign Minister spoke in Doha a few weeks back. He urged Israel to halt its actions in Gaza. Yet, a high-level security advisor is linked to the response in Abuja. This advisor, Nuhu Ribadu, was reported to have directed the crackdown on the protest. His orders came from the top, under the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration.
The peaceful nature of Quds Day is well known. Protesters in other Nigerian states reported no violence. They held the day with calm and respect. That makes the events in Abuja stand out sharply.
Several experts see this act as a breach of protest rights. They say detaining youth worsens the issue. Others call for a clear government reply. They point out that holding back bodies and not releasing the dead only fuels anger. Most note the need for a full investigation into the events.
Some observers believe the protest reflected a wider global call for justice. Quds Day began in 1979 by Ayatollah Khomeini. Since then, the day has grown in strength. Many countries now honor a peaceful Quds Day. The protest in Abuja was a part of this global stand.
The protest and ensuing clampdown have sparked heated debate. Citizens and activists ask for clear answers. They call on the government to review its methods. Critics find the detentions harsh and inhumane. They worry that such acts may hurt Nigeria's image abroad.
In response, leaders of the movement plan legal action. They vow to take the matter to court. They hold top leaders accountable for the loss of lives. They also demand the safe release of all detainees. The movement has vowed to pursue justice until all questions are answered.
The report has stirred deep conversations among Nigerians. Many urge a calm dialogue among all parties. Others back the call for police reforms. The debate centers on the balance between law and order and human rights.
This story is still unfolding. More details and verified counts may come as reviews continue. Both authorities and the movement face pressure to offer a clear view of events. As more data is released, experts will study its impact.
In the end, the incident has left many with a hard truth. A key day of peace ended in chaos. The hope remains for a proper inquiry that restores trust. The conversation now calls for calm and firm steps to prevent future tragedies.
We invite readers to discuss the events and share their views. Your voice is key to a future with fair actions and clearer rights.