In Abuja, security operatives disrupted a religious gathering of Shi’a Muslims during the Maulud celebration, which honors the birth of Imam Mahdi. The event, organized by the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) led by Sayyid Ibraheem El-Zakzaky, was held at the Nigeria Airforce Investments Limited venue.
Shortly after the program began, a convoy of about 50 trucks carrying heavily armed personnel from the Nigerian Police Force, Nigerian Army, and Department of State Services (DSS) cordoned off the location. The operation was led by Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Magawata. Security forces ordered attendees to disperse, stating that the organizers had not obtained permission from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Commissioner of Police.
The Shi’ite group refuted this claim, arguing that Nigerian courts have established that police authorization is not required for peaceful assembly. Professor Abdullahi Danladi, Coordinator of the IMN Resource Forum, condemned the security operation and called for accountability from President Bola Tinubu and top security officials. He stated that members felt traumatized by the aggressive tactics, which they claimed caused both financial and social harm.
The group demanded an end to the disruption of their religious activities and called for the prosecution of those responsible for violating their rights. Despite the incident, the Shi’ites reaffirmed their commitment to continue their religious observances.
This event highlights ongoing tensions between the IMN and Nigerian authorities, raising concerns about religious freedom and the right to peaceful assembly in the country.
