Members of the South West leadership of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) staged a peaceful protest in Lagos State on Monday to denounce the reported death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in strikes by the United States and Israel.
The early‑morning demonstration in the Maryland area saw participants carrying placards and banners condemning what they described as an “invasion” of Iran and the targeted killing of the long‑serving Iranian leader, following similar protests in Kano State on Sunday.
Chants and slogans emphasised solidarity with Iran and opposition to the actions of the United States and Israel.
Reports said the gathering remained calm and orderly, with no immediate reports of violence or major disruptions.
Some IMN leaders speaking to journalists urged the Nigerian government to reject the presence of US troops in the country.
South West coordinator of IMN, Muftau Zakariya, said the protest was intended to express concerns about what he described as sustained invasions of sovereign nations by the United States, citing Venezuela as an example of foreign interference.
Zakariya also claimed that terrorism in Nigeria has increased since the involvement of the US government, alleging that heightened attacks in Kwara State followed what he described as US involvement in the country’s affairs.
He said the United States prioritises its economic interests without regard for consequences.
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Another IMN leader, Muhammadu Bashir, said the protest was a way to register their concerns over the killing of Iranian leaders and vowed that the demonstrations would remain peaceful and continue across the region.
The demonstration follows widespread outrage among Shi’ite communities globally after Iranian state media confirmed Khamenei’s death on Saturday during large‑scale US‑Israeli operations against targets in Iran.
Iran’s authorities announced 40 days of national mourning in his honour.
IMN members in other parts of northern Nigeria, including Niger State and Kano, have also taken to the streets, chanting solidarity slogans and waving Iranian flags and placards condemning the reported attacks.
Protesters described the strikes as acts of global injustice and imperial aggression, and pledged unwavering support for the Iranian people.
