Members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) have staged protests across several northern states, expressing outrage over the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
The demonstrations, reported in cities including Kano, Kaduna, and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, saw participants carrying portraits of Khamenei and chanting slogans condemning the United States and Israel for the airstrikes that targeted his compound in Tehran on Saturday.
Protesters described the killing as an act of “global arrogance” and a direct attack on the Shiite faith worldwide. Khamenei, who had led Iran since 1989, was a central figure for Shiite Muslims globally. His death was confirmed by Iranian state media early Sunday, following announcements by U.S. President Donald Trump.
Iran has declared 40 days of national mourning, a sentiment now mirrored by his followers in Nigeria. IMN leaders warned that “the blood of the martyrs will not go in vain,” raising concerns over potential domestic unrest.
The Nigerian government has urged calm, calling on all parties to prioritize dialogue over further military escalation.
