Reported by Afilawos Magana Sur, Managing Editor | Journalist at Sele Media Africa.

The Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), a Shi’ite organization operating in the country, has rejected allegations that it plans to target United States citizens during its forthcoming International Quds Day procession in Abuja, assuring residents and diplomatic communities that the event will be peaceful. In a statement issued ahead of the scheduled Friday gathering, the group dismissed circulating reports suggesting it posed a threat to U.S. nationals or foreign interests in the Nigerian capital. IMN representatives described the claims as “baseless and misleading,” reiterating that the annual march is a symbolic demonstration of solidarity with Palestinians rather than an act directed at any foreign citizens. International Quds Day, observed annually on the last Friday of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, was established in 1979 by Iran’s late Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, as a global event advocating Palestinian rights. The observance typically includes peaceful demonstrations and public gatherings in several countries. The IMN said this year’s Abuja procession would proceed under strict instructions for non-violence and respect for public order. Organizers urged participants to maintain discipline while calling on authorities and the public to avoid actions that could escalate tensions. “We have no plan whatsoever to harm any American citizen or any other foreign national,” the movement said in its statement, emphasizing that its activities are focused solely on expressing solidarity with Palestine and raising awareness about the Palestinian cause. The development follows heightened security concerns after reports circulated online warning of possible threats linked to the planned demonstration. Authorities in Abuja have not publicly confirmed any credible intelligence indicating an imminent attack, but security agencies typically maintain heightened vigilance during large public gatherings. Nigeria’s security services have previously monitored IMN activities closely due to past clashes between the group and state authorities, particularly following the 2015 Zaria incident involving the Nigerian military and IMN members. The organization remains a controversial movement within Nigeria’s religious and political landscape. Despite the tensions surrounding previous protests, the Shi’ite group insists its upcoming Quds Day march in Abuja will be conducted peacefully and responsibly. It also urged residents of the Federal Capital Territory not to panic, stating that the procession would remain orderly and focused on its stated humanitarian message. Security analysts say such assurances are important in a city that hosts multiple diplomatic missions, including the United States Embassy, where safety concerns are taken seriously during politically sensitive demonstrations. As preparations continue for the Friday procession, authorities are expected to coordinate security arrangements to ensure public safety and maintain order throughout the capital. Sources: Reuters; BBC News; Al Jazeera; Associated Press.

Afilawos Magana Sur

Afilawos Magana Sur is a journalist from Bogoro Local Government Area of Bauchi State, currently based in Bauchi metropolis. He is known for his commitment to accurate, ethical, and responsible journalism, with a focus on reporting issues of public relevance and community development.

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