Shiite Movement Denies US Embassy Attack Plot in Abuja Amid Global Tensions
The Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), commonly known as the Shiite movement, has firmly rejected allegations that it is planning attacks on American citizens or institutions in the country. The group emphasized that its activities are strictly peaceful and lawful, responding to heightened security concerns in Abuja.
US Embassy Issues Security Advisory
Earlier this week, the United States Embassy in Nigeria released a security advisory warning American citizens of a potential threat targeting US diplomatic facilities and associated institutions. The notice, issued on Tuesday, March 10, urged nationals to remain vigilant when visiting these locations, including schools linked to the American government.
This alert comes amid escalating global tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, raising fears that related demonstrations could spread to various parts of the world, including Nigeria.
IMN Leader Denies Involvement in Violence
Professor Abdullah Danladi, head of the IMN Resource Forum, dismissed the allegations, stating that the movement has never engaged in violent acts since its inception in 1977. He asserted, "In the history of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, we have never attacked anybody or given instructions to attack anybody. It is not in our line, it is not in our making, and it is not in our religion to attack anyone."
Danladi also questioned the embassy's decision to issue a public warning instead of formally reporting any threat to Nigerian security agencies. He suggested that proper protocol would involve notifying the Nigerian police for investigation and apprehension of any suspects.
Quds Day Procession Announced
The IMN has announced plans to observe Quds Day on Friday, March 13, an annual event marked globally in solidarity with Palestinians. The procession will also serve to mourn the death of Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. According to Danladi, the activity will involve members marching through designated routes, carrying placards, and educating the public about the Palestinian cause.
He assured that the event would be peaceful if allowed to proceed without interference, stating, "What we do is follow the streets, educate people and carry placards. If the police allow us to conduct our activities as they did last year, there will be no problem."
Assurances of Peaceful Activities
Danladi reassured residents of the Federal Capital Territory that the procession would remain orderly and non-violent. He added, "Let people be rest assured. As far as we are concerned, we have been doing our activities peacefully and we will continue to do so. So long as we are not attacked, nothing is going to happen."
Security agencies have recently increased deployments in parts of Abuja due to concerns about potential protests linked to developments in Iran, though such demonstrations have not materialized. Past clashes between the IMN and security forces, including an incident last year near Banex Roundabout in Wuse 2, have resulted in fatalities, with the group claiming member deaths and police confirming an officer's loss.
Background on US Terror Designations
In a related development, the United States has designated the Sudanese Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist organization, alleging training and support from Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Secretary Marco Rubio announced this on Monday, March 9, 2026, as part of ongoing efforts to address security threats in Africa.
