Why it matters:
The arrest comes amid Nigeria's growing security cooperation with Israeli regime and could signal a significant shift in its traditionally pro-Palestine foreign policy, potentially isolating the country from global movements supporting Palestinian statehood.
The big picture:
Nigeria's apparent alignment with the Israeli regime contrasts with the increasing international isolation of Israel over aggression on Gaza, including genocide cases at the International Court of Justice and trade restrictions by multiple countries, while contradicting Nigeria's historical support for Palestine that dates back to 1988.
What the Islamic Movement is saying:
"Our attention has been drawn to the arrest of Ramzy Abo Ibrahim, the leader of the Palestinian Community in Nigeria by the Nigerian police. A reliable source confirmed that he was arrested on Friday, 22 August, 2025, and the arrest took place in the same month the Nigerian Government and the illegal state of Israel sealed a pact on security."
"The sudden 'double standards' or change of Nigeria's foreign policy on Palestine signifies that the Bola Ahmad Tinubu-led administration has decided to partner with the illegal state of Israel in the ongoing genocide in Gaza, Palestine. This is unacceptable, condemnable, and capable of putting Nigeria and the people of the country on the wrong side of world history with irreparable, dangerous consequences."
"Bola Ahmad Tinubu decided to be with the illegal state of Israel at a time when countries like the United Kingdom, France, Canada, Australia, and several others are increasingly distancing themselves from the illegal state of Israel and pushing for the recognition of a Palestinian state."
Go deeper:
Amnesty International Condemns Nigeria for Crackdown on Shia Muslims in Gaza Protest
M.Majdi - seyed mohammad kazemi
