By Our Correspondent
National News – The Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), commonly known as Shi’ites, has denied allegations that it plans to attack American citizens or institutions in Nigeria, insisting that its activities remain peaceful and lawful.
The group also confirmed that it will hold its annual Quds Day procession on Friday, March 13, 2026, in Abuja.
The event will also include prayers and activities to mourn the reported death of Iranian leader Ali Khamenei.
The clarification followed a security advisory issued by the United States Embassy in Nigeria warning American citizens to remain vigilant around diplomatic facilities and US-affiliated schools due to a potential security threat.
Responding to the alert, IMN’s Resource Forum head, Abdullah Danladi, said the group has never encouraged violence since its formation in 1977.
According to him, the movement has always focused on peaceful demonstrations and religious activities.
Danladi questioned why the embassy chose to release a public warning instead of reporting its concerns to Nigerian security agencies for investigation.
He maintained that the organisation has no plans to target American interests or any other individuals.
He explained that the annual Quds Day procession usually involves members marching along designated routes while carrying placards and educating the public about the Palestinian cause.
He added that previous processions ended peacefully whenever security agencies allowed participants to conduct their activities without interference.
According to the IMN spokesperson, Nigerian citizens have constitutional rights to freedom of association and assembly, stressing that the group does not require police permission to organise religious gatherings.
Security agencies had recently increased monitoring in parts of the Federal Capital Territory following fears that Shi’ite members might stage protests linked to developments in Iran and growing geopolitical tensions involving the United States, Israel and Iran.
The IMN and Nigerian security forces have previously clashed during demonstrations in Abuja.
One of the confrontations occurred near Banex Roundabout in Wuse 2 during last year’s Quds Day procession, where casualties were reported among protesters and a police officer.
Despite the history of tensions, IMN leaders insist the 2026 Abuja march will remain peaceful if authorities allow participants to proceed without disruption.
