The United States Embassy in Nigeria has issued a security advisory urging caution ahead of planned protests by the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) in Abuja and other major cities on Friday, March 28, 2025.
According to the advisory, the protests could cause significant disruptions, including heavy traffic congestion, roadblocks, checkpoints, and potential confrontations between demonstrators and security forces.
While the IMN has not officially announced protest locations, past demonstrations have taken place at: Bannex Plaza, Berger Junction, Unity Fountain, National Human Rights Commission Head Office, Eagle Square, Area 10 Shopping Plaza, National Mosque, Al-Noor Mosque and Fouad Lababidi Mosque
The U.S. Embassy has advised American citizens and the general public to exercise caution, recommending the following precautionary measures: Avoid areas where protests are taking place, stay away from large crowds, be vigilant and monitor local news for updates, be aware of surroundings at all times and keep mobile phones charged and carry proper identification
The advisory further stressed that while protests may begin peacefully, they could escalate into violent confrontations, as seen in 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, and in response to other grievances. Some of these demonstrations have resulted in clashes with security forces, leading to casualties and arrests.
