Sheikh Ibraheem El‑Zakzaky’s passport was withheld by Nigerian authorities, prompting a protest in Abuja on Thursday. According to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command, 19 Shi’ite members were arrested after the demonstration turned violent.
The protest was organized by the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), which has more than 400 members. Following a Federal High Court ruling on the release of El‑Zakzaky’s passport, the demonstrators marched from the Federal High Court to Eagle Square, blocking roads and inconveniencing commuters while demanding the immediate return of their leader’s international passport.
FCT Police spokesperson SP Josephine Adeh explained that police were dispatched after receiving distress calls from residents concerned for their safety. When the reinforcement team arrived, IMN members began throwing stones, Molotov cocktails and other dangerous objects at the officers. The police dispersed the unlawful procession with minimal force, arresting 19 suspects who will be charged in court.
Adeh assured residents that the FCT command remains committed to security, safety and peace in the capital territory. She reported no untoward incidents during ongoing observation and monitoring. The Commissioner of Police urged the public to stay vigilant and promptly report calls or complaints using the emergency lines 080‑3200‑3913, 080‑6158‑1938, 070‑5733‑7653, and 080‑2894‑0883, or the Public Complaint Bureau desk at 0902 222 2352.
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