Members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria IMN also known as Shiites staged a peaceful protest at the National Mosque in Abuja on Friday to express strong solidarity with the Palestinian people and demand an immediate end to the ongoing killings in Gaza. The demonstration which coincided with the annual International Quds Day observed on the last Friday of Ramadan drew thousands of participants who gathered after Friday prayers carrying banners Palestinian flags and in some cases Iranian flags while chanting slogans in support of Palestine and condemning actions by Israel and the United States.
Protesters repeatedly called for a halt to what they described as genocide in Gaza urging governments especially those of Israel and the US to stop the violence and support Palestinian rights. Videos and reports from the scene showed participants waving placards burning flags associated with the US and Israel in symbolic gestures and shouting anti occupation chants. The event remained largely peaceful with no immediate reports of clashes though the group has a history of tense encounters with security forces during similar demonstrations in the past.
This protest reflects broader global expressions of support for Palestinians amid the prolonged conflict in Gaza and highlights the IMNs consistent stance on international Muslim solidarity issues. The movement led by Sheikh Ibraheem Yaqoub El Zakzaky has previously organized similar rallies in various Nigerian cities to mark Quds Day emphasizing opposition to perceived injustices against Muslims worldwide.
The gathering has sparked mixed reactions online with some Nigerians questioning priorities amid local security challenges while others viewed it as a legitimate expression of religious and humanitarian concern.