Again, Shiites block expressway in Abuja, clash with military

Reminiscent of the incident that led to the tragic slaughter of members in Kaduna, arrest and detention of its leader, Sheikh El Zakzaki and his wife in 2015, the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), otherwise known as the Shiites, reportedly took over a major highway in Abuja on Tuesday, only to be dislodged by the military.

Tension rose in Gwarimpa area of Abuja after a bloody clash between the military and the members of the Islamic Movement who were moving in a procession along the AYA-Kubwa Expressway.

The faceoff resulted in a traffic gridlock that left many commuters stranded.

The Shiites, blocked the road before they were dispersed by the combined team of security personnel around Gwarimpa.

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Several vehicles were also vandalised by the Shiites who resorted to hauling stones at the security operatives, according to Thisday report.

The impact of the face-off led to partial lockdown of the city of Abuja as soldiers and policemen were stationed in many parts of the city to forestall security breach.

The Shiites stormed FCT on Monday to commemorate the annual symbolic Arbaeen trek.