Members of Nigeria’s Islamic Movement (Shiites) rallied Friday in Abuja. They mourned Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei deeply.
The procession featured emotional chants and banners. Solidarity with Iran resonated strongly among participants.
Shiites’ Milestone Abuja Rally: First Since Cleric’s Death
Global Islamic leaders’ tributes inspired the gathering. Attendees prayed for Khamenei’s soul fervently.
Shiites’ Abuja rally marked a milestone event. First demonstration in Federal Capital Territory since cleric’s death.
He was reportedly killed February 26 amid conflict. US-Israel tensions fueled the ongoing strife violently.
The gathering honored his memory solemnly. Participants demanded justice through unified chants powerfully.
Shiites Mark Quds Day with Massive Abuja National Mosque Rally
The rally coincided with the annual Quds Day observance and drew thousands of Shiite Muslims to the National Mosque in Abuja.
Participants carried banners, waved flags, and chanted slogans condemning Israeli actions against Palestinians.
Pre-rally fears of FCT protests triggered alerts. Abuja authorities heightened security measures across key areas swiftly.
Police deployed extra forces strategically. Barricades and patrols ensured public safety amid rising tensions.
US Embassy in Nigeria Shuts Over Shiite Rally Fears
The United States Embassy in Nigeria had also temporarily shut its operations amid fears of demonstrations.
Islamic Movement’s Media Forum Chairman Ammar Rajab spoke to Punch. Group has observed Quds Day over four decades.
The tradition underscores enduring commitment. Annual events promote Palestinian solidarity nationwide consistently.
Quds Day annually features engaging lectures and discussions. Participants deepen understanding of key issues passionately.
Processions and public campaigns follow vibrantly. Awareness drives mobilize communities for Palestinian support effectively.
Quds Day 2026 Significant Amid Worsening Palestinian Crisis: Rajab
Rajab said the 2026 observance was particularly significant due to the worsening humanitarian situation in Palestinian territories.
He said, “This year’s observance is particularly urgent as reports indicate that over 200,000 Palestinians have been killed or injured since October 2023, with hundreds of thousands displaced.
Journalists have been barred from reporting the crisis, leaving the reality largely hidden.”
“We also mourned the assassination of Ayatullah Ali Khamenei, highlighting his uncompromising stand against oppression and injustice.
And reaffirmed the movement’s call for the freedom and liberation of Palestine.”
Rajab, however, dismissed reports that security operatives attacked members of the group during the rally.
“It is not true. We started peacefully and left without any intervention from the police,” he said.
Nyanya-Mararaba Traffic Chaos from Shiite Rally Security Checks
Personnel mounted checkpoints strategically. Vehicle searches ensured safety amid heightened alerts.
Congestion frustrated commuters daily. Operations aimed to prevent disruptions effectively.
The movement also held a demonstration in Bauchi State in support of Palestine and Iran.
Movement leader Ahmad Yashi told Saturday Punch confidently. Protest marks Quds Day activities in state precisely.
Quds Day Unites Global Muslims for Palestine on Ramadan’s Last Friday
The global event falls last Friday of Ramadan. Observance unites Muslims worldwide for Palestine solidarity.
“This is a known demonstration held on the last Friday of every Ramadan worldwide under the Quds Day platform.
It is to show support and sympathy for Palestinians who have been under invasion for about eight decades,” he said.
Yashi maintained that the demonstrations organised by the group had always been peaceful.
The IMN also reiterated its support for Iran amid the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel.
Khamenei’s Killing Escalates Crisis, Won’t Resolve It: Yashi
According to Yashi, the killing of Khamenei would not resolve the crisis but could further escalate tensions.
“We are with Iran in heart and soul. They targeted the Iranian Supreme Leader to make the country surrender, but they are mistaken.
The Supreme Leader, as a religious authority, was among those dousing tensions,” he said.
He also criticised Western powers, accusing them of contributing to global instability.
“Islam is a peaceful religion, but the West is the problem. They are selfish and want everyone to bow to them. This will not happen; those days are gone,” Yashi added.
Bauchi Shiites Stage Peaceful Iran Solidarity March
Bauchi movement members staged peaceful demonstration earlier. Solidarity with Iran shone through organized marches vibrantly.
The event proceeded without incidents smoothly. Participants chanted slogans supporting Tehran unwaveringly.
“We conducted a peaceful demonstration in support of Iran, and every Muslim must take a side in this war. You are either with the righteous or with the oppressors,” he said.
