On the 36th anniversary of Imam Khomeini’s demise, Nigerian Muslim students staged a pro-Palestine rally in Suleja, near Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria, renewing calls for justice in Gaza and honoring the late Iranian leader’s legacy of resistance.

Why it matters:

The rally wasn’t just a protest, it was a symbolic alignment with the values Imam Khomeini championed: resistance against oppression, justice for the oppressed, and unwavering support for the Palestinian cause.

Marking Imam Khomeini's demise anniversary this way reinforces his enduring influence on political consciousness among Muslim youth globally.

 

The big picture:

Dozens of students took to the streets with Palestinian flags, posters of Imam Khomeini, and banners bearing slogans like “Without struggles, no freedom,” “We are all Palestine,” and “Death to Israel.”

The demonstration adds to a wave of international protests condemning the Israeli regime’s ongoing aggression in Gaza, which many human rights groups describe as genocidal.

 

What they're saying:

“We’re not just remembering an ordinary man,” said Muhammad Jawad, National Coordinator of the Academic Forum. “Imam Khomeini was a revolutionary scholar who stood for justice for all, regardless of ethnicity or religion. His declaration of Quds Day was rooted in universal solidarity.”

Fatima Ismail, a student leader from Ahmadu Bello University, said: “Imam Khomeini was the father of resistance. He gave a voice to the voiceless. As we mark his death, it’s only right to stand with Palestinians and echo his legacy of global justice.”

 

Go deeper:

Imam Khomeini’s Legacy Inspires African Solidarity: Sheikh Zakzaky

 

Hossein Vaez