The United States Embassy in Nigeria has issued a security advisory, urging caution ahead of planned protests by the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) scheduled for Friday, March 28, 2025, in Abuja and other major cities.
According to the advisory, the demonstrations may cause significant disruptions, including heavy traffic congestion, roadblocks, checkpoints, and potential confrontations between protesters and security forces, BusinessDay reports.
While the IMN has not officially disclosed protest locations, past demonstrations have taken place at several key spots in Abuja, including Bannex Plaza, Berger Junction, Unity Fountain, the National Human Rights Commission Head Office, Eagle Square, Area 10 Shopping Plaza, National Mosque, Al-Noor Mosque, and Fouad Lababidi Mosque.
The embassy has advised American citizens and the general public to take precautionary measures, including avoiding protest areas, steering clear of large crowds, staying vigilant, monitoring local news for updates, being constantly aware of their surroundings, and ensuring mobile phones are charged while carrying proper identification.
The advisory also warned that while protests may start peacefully, they have the potential to escalate into violent clashes, as witnessed during previous IMN demonstrations.
The IMN, also known as the Shi’ite movement, has a history of staging protests, often to demand the release of their leader, Sheikh Ibrahim El-Zakzaky, or in response to other grievances. Some of these protests have turned violent, resulting in casualties and arrests.
Residents of Abuja and other major cities are urged to stay alert and plan their movements carefully to avoid potential disruptions.
