ONSA Warns Planned IMN Procession, Cite Security Concerns

The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has issued a strong warning against the planned procession by the proscribed Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) on Friday, March 28, 2025, citing serious security risks.

According to intelligence reports, IMN members are planning to stage the march in Nasarawa State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, as part of their annual International Quds Day observance in solidarity with Palestinians. Authorities fear the demonstration could escalate into unrest and extend beyond Nigerian government protests to include demonstrations against the United States and Israel in several northern states.

The security advisory revealed that IMN members from Bauchi, Taraba, Adamawa, Gombe, and Plateau States have already started gathering at their camp in Rugan Juli, Karu, ahead of the planned procession in Abuja. It further warned that elements within the group might exploit the march to stage violent protests in states such as Kano, Katsina, Kaduna, Niger, Bauchi, Gombe, Nasarawa, Yobe, Adamawa, and Sokoto.

In response, security agencies have been directed to closely monitor IMN activities and reinforce security around critical locations, including the U.S. and Israeli embassies in Lagos and Abuja, as well as assets linked to their nationals. The ONSA stressed the need for adequate security deployment before, during, and after the procession to prevent possible violence.

Authorities have urged security forces to take proactive measures to ensure public safety and prevent any disruptions during the period of the planned march.