Members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) on Sunday staged peaceful protests in Gombe State, Bauchi State, and Kano State following reports of an alleged attack on Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The coordinated demonstrations, which attracted dozens of supporters in each state, featured peaceful processions, placards, and chants of solidarity. No incidents of violence were reported.

In Gombe, IMN members assembled at Tudun Wadan Pantami before marching through parts of the metropolis, including Sabon Layi and the BCGA area. The procession was led by Sheikh Muhammad Abbari, who condemned the reported attack while urging restraint among followers.

“We strongly condemn any attack on a religious and political leader of such standing. However, our followers must remain calm, peaceful, and law-abiding in expressing their concerns,” Abbari said.

He described the protest as a lawful and peaceful means of registering grievances and expressing solidarity.
Security personnel were deployed to strategic locations across the state. The Gombe State Police Command confirmed the deployment, noting that officers monitored the protest to ensure public safety.

In Bauchi, IMN members also held a peaceful demonstration in parts of the metropolis, carrying banners and white flags. The Bauchi State Police Command said the protest did not disrupt public order.

A police spokesperson in the state affirmed that the demonstrators exercised their constitutional right to peaceful assembly without incident.

Speaking for the group in Bauchi, Ahmad Yashi said the protest was organised to express solidarity with Iran and condemn the alleged attack on its Supreme Leader. He called for calm and discipline among supporters.

In Kano, IMN members gathered around the Fegge Central Mosque in Kofar Waika, holding candles and white shrouds as symbols of mourning. Traffic was briefly slowed as demonstrators occupied sections of the road, but normal movement was restored after the protest ended peacefully.

The Kano State Police Command said security was heightened to prevent any breach of peace, adding that officers escorted the protesters to ensure order. Community leaders were also engaged, while Shi’ite leaders appealed to participants to remain peaceful and continue prayers at home and in mosques.

At the national level, the acting Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, directed Commissioners of Police nationwide to intensify surveillance and strengthen collaboration with traditional and religious leaders.

In a statement issued by Force spokesman Benjamin Hundeyin, police commands were instructed to enhance visibility policing around worship centres and public spaces, and to prevent any attempt to exploit global developments to incite unrest.

Observers have cautioned that such demonstrations could carry diplomatic implications, urging restraint to avoid misinterpretation of Nigeria’s foreign policy stance.

As of Monday evening, protests in the affected states remained peaceful, with organisers and security agencies reiterating calls for calm.