Scores of pro-Iran Shia Muslims gathered at the Abuja National Mosque on Friday to mark Quds Day, chanting anti-Israel and anti-United States slogans despite a strong security presence.
Approximately 200 worshippers assembled after afternoon prayers in Abuja, carrying images of Iran’s late supreme leader and expressing solidarity with Palestinians as hostilities involving Iran, Israel and the United States continue to escalate in the Middle East.
The demonstration lasted about 15 minutes and appeared to catch security forces by surprise before dispersing peacefully.
Islamic Movement of Nigeria Behind Protest
The rally was organised by the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), a group that has been banned by Nigerian authorities since 2019 over allegations that it promotes an Islamic revolution in the country.
Despite the ban, the organisation remains active, regularly staging demonstrations and religious gatherings.
Security analysts and researchers have often described the movement as primarily protest-oriented rather than focused on armed political violence, although authorities have frequently linked it to public unrest.
Protesters Voice Support for Iran
Participants at the rally condemned Western involvement in the Middle East conflict and expressed support for Iran’s leadership.
“The United States should withdraw its military assets from the Middle East,” said protester Abdullahi Musa, referring to ongoing regional tensions. He also criticised the killing of Iran’s former supreme leader, saying those responsible would “regret it.”
Concerns Over Potential Crackdown
The protest comes amid heightened tensions between Nigerian authorities and the IMN.
In the past, the government has responded forcefully to the group’s demonstrations. According to an intelligence report, clashes during a protest last year left 11 demonstrators and one soldier dead.
Friday’s gathering followed similar protests across northern Nigerian cities on March 1, shortly after the United States and Israel launched a military campaign against Iran.
Observers warn that continued demonstrations could lead to renewed confrontations with security forces, particularly as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East resonate among Shia communities and activist groups across parts of Africa.
