No fewer than six persons in Abuja have been reported dead following the clash between members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) and security operatives on Tuesday.

The unfortunate incident happened near Gwarimpa gate in the capital, where members of IMN, also known as Shi’ites, were chanting songs as they marched along the road.

They were observing the annual symbolic Arbaeen Trek when police officers opened fire on them. Two civilians reportedly sustained life-threatening injuries.

Secretary of the Academic Forum of IMN, Abdullahi Musa, confirmed the clash.

Speaking with Sahara Reporters, he said, “They are just shooting people. As I am talking to you now, six people have been killed. They even carried some dead bodies away.”

On Monday, the Nigerian Police had beefed up security in major areas of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, in preparation for the Shi’ites annual procession.