Pro-Iran Protest by Nigerian Shias Draws Security Presence in Abuja

Scores of Shia Muslims in Nigeria rallied in support of Iran on Friday, chanting anti-US and anti-Israel slogans despite a strong security presence in the capital.

Roughly 200 worshippers gathered after prayers at the Abuja National Mosque, holding images of Iran’s late leader while voicing their anger over the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

“Shame to America, shame to Israel,” the demonstrators chanted as police officers monitored the gathering.

The protest was led by the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), a pro-Iranian Shia organisation that represents a minority among Nigeria’s Muslim community.

The group assembled within the mosque compound, apparently catching security forces by surprise, before dispersing about 15 minutes later.

Nigeria banned the IMN in 2019 over allegations that it sought to promote an Islamic revolution in the country. Nonetheless, analysts at the time said the movement was largely focused on public demonstrations rather than armed violence.

The IMN had earlier organised marches in northern Nigerian cities on March 1 following the start of a US-Israeli bombing campaign that reportedly killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and sparked a broader regional war.

Tensions have also prompted heightened security measures. The United States Embassy in Nigeria closed last week due to the possibility of protests after authorities blocked planned IMN demonstrations.

On Friday, additional checkpoints and security patrols slowed traffic on roads leading into Abuja.

Previous confrontations between the group and security forces have turned deadly. During a protest last year, clashes reportedly killed 11 demonstrators and one soldier, according to an intelligence report cited by AFP.

Authorities, protesters and rights organisations have since disputed what led to the violence.

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