Islamic Movement Of Nigeria Denies US Attack Plans, Confirms Peaceful Quds Day Procession
The Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), commonly known as the Shi’ites, has denied claims that it intends to target American citizens or institutions in the country, affirming that its activities are entirely peaceful and lawful. The group announced that it will observe this year’s Quds Day on Friday, March 13, 2026, to commemorate the late Iranian leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The statement comes after the United States Embassy in Nigeria issued a security alert warning of a potential threat against American diplomatic facilities and US-linked schools, urging citizens to exercise caution amid rising global tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Prof. Abdullah Danladi, head of the IMN Resource Forum, rejected suggestions that the group or its members were planning attacks. He stressed that the movement has never engaged in violence. “In the history of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, which started around 1977, we have never attacked anybody or instructed anyone to attack. It is not part of our principles or religion to harm anyone,” Danladi said. He also questioned why the US Embassy made the alert public rather than reporting concerns to Nigerian security agencies. “If there were any real threat, the proper channel would have been to inform the Nigerian police so they could investigate,” he said. Danladi noted that the IMN’s annual processions are peaceful, only turning violent if provoked by security forces. “Last year, when there was no interference from security agencies, the procession went on smoothly and ended peacefully,” he added. He outlined plans for this year’s Quds Day procession, saying members would walk along designated routes, carry placards, and educate the public about the Palestinian cause. “We follow the streets, engage people, and carry placards. If authorities allow us to conduct our activities as they did last year, there will be no issues,” he said. On the question of police permission for religious gatherings, Danladi emphasized that the group does not require it, citing constitutional rights to freedom of association and assembly. “There is no law mandating that we seek police approval to hold our affairs,” he said. He assured residents of Abuja that the procession would remain peaceful. “We have always conducted our activities peacefully, and we will continue to do so. Nothing will happen as long as we are not attacked,” Danladi concluded.
