Nigeria: IMN demonstration possible in Kaduna January 17

Event

Unconfirmed reports indicate that the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) is slated to hold a demonstration in Kaduna (Kaduna state) on Friday, January 17. Participants are expected to march from Nnamdi Azikwe Road toward Tudun Wada to call for the immediate release of the group's leader Ibrahim el-Zakzaky.

A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are to be expected in the area over the coming hours. Clashes between protesters and security forces are possible.

Context

IMN leader Ibrahim el-Zakzaky, a prominent Shi'a cleric, was arrested in December 2015 when soldiers raided his home in Zaria (Kaduna state), killing a number of IMN followers in the process. The Nigerian Federal High Court ordered Zakzaky's release in December 2016, but he has remained in detention. IMN protests occur on a regular basis, especially in Abuja, Kaduna, and Kano states, despite a ban on the group's activities.

Advice

Individuals in Kaduna are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all protests due to the risk of violence, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.

The security environment in Nigeria is complex and is particularly challenging in the northeast and extreme south of the country due to the presence of armed groups, high crime rates, and the risk of kidnapping. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel to such areas.