Why it matters:
On Friday, Nigerian military forces opened fire on peaceful demonstrators, including women and children, marching in solidarity with Palestine. The attack underscores the persistent crackdown on IMN’s religious activities, despite constitutional protections for peaceful assembly and protest.
The big picture:
IMN has been observing Quds Day for over 40 years, commemorating the event established by Iran’s Imam Khomeini as a global day of solidarity with oppressed people, particularly Palestinians. While Quds Day rallies were peaceful across Nigeria, the Abuja march was violently suppressed. This incident adds to a history of military confrontations with the group, raising concerns over human rights violations and religious freedom in Nigeria.
What he’s saying:
At a press conference in Abuja, Head of IMN’s Resource Forum Professor, Abdullahi Danladi, condemned the attack, stating: "We condemn the Guard Brigade attack on the 2025 International Quds Day in Abuja… Apart from killing unarmed protesters, the army committed numerous atrocities, including arresting people at 'Usman bin Affan' Mosque, beating them, and forcibly removing their hijabs, actions that are completely forbidden in Islam."
He also criticized media outlets describing the incident as a “clash,” emphasizing that there was no provocation from Quds Day participants.
Key Points:
- Muslim youths in Bauchi held a rally to denounce the military’s actions.
- IMN urged the government to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Go Deeper:
Nigerian Military Opens Fire on Quds Day March in Abuja, Killing at Least Five
Hossein Vaez
