The Islamic movement in Nigeria (IMN) is often referred to as Shiites, accusing security forces (particularly police) of being responsible for the death of free Palestinian protesters in detention.
The group claims that some protesters were arrested on March 28, 2025 and died in detention.
During a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday, the group claimed that one of the detainees, HuzaifaTudun Iya from Kasina State University died at around 6 pm on April 7, 2025, while being held in the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) Detention Center held in Guzape, Abuja.
When speaking on behalf of IMN Sidi Munir MainasaraThis is the main leader of the movement under Sayyid Ibraheem Zakzaky, who condemned what he said was the ongoing human rights violations against his members.
He said at least 27 protesters died and were allegedly killed during the initial crackdown on March 28, 2025.
The group also pointed to the contradictions it sees as the Nigerian government’s position on Palestine.
According to IMN, in March 2025, Foreign Minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar publicly condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza and called for an end to the conflict.
However, at the same time, federal authorities reportedly directed security agencies to curb Pro-Palestinian demonstrations in Abuja.
As part of their response, the IMN vowed to hold the government accountable for death and detention, announcing their intention to take legal action to challenge what they say is human rights violations.
Shiites demand justice for protesters
Sheikh Mainasara said:We have recently received shocking news that freedom protesters who have been detained by the FCT Police Command since March 28, 2025 are in custody. Among the recently passed away, Shaheed Huzaifa Muhammad from Tudun Iya, Katsina State, reached the Mart Difficulty at the IRT facility in Abujapu on Monday, April 7, 2025. ”
He further highlighted the inconsistency of the government in supporting Palestinian support, saying: “The solidarity with the Palestinian people is not the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. ”
Mainasara condemned the security crackdown, declared that the movement put the Tinubu-led government in charge of the deaths of 27 protesters and vowed to continue seeking justice:
“In view of these developments, we will hold a federal government led by President Tinubu, responsible for the killing of 27 Free Palestinian protesters. We also vow to order prayers for all those who order murder and arrest on the 2025 International Quds Day of Abuja.
“While condemning this outrageous crime against humanity, we are determined to challenge every human rights abuse caused by the free Palestinian protesters in court,” he said. The group has been added.
The Shiite group reiterated its commitment to peaceful resistance and noted that it would persist through legal means and prayer to seek justice for those who died.
