Nigeria: IMN demonstration possible in Kaduna February 6

Event

Protests by supporters of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) are possible in Kaduna (Kaduna state) on Thursday, February 6, as the trial of the group's leader, Ibrahim el-Zakzaky, concluded as of the early afternoon (local time). The court adjourned the trial to Monday, February 24, and Tuesday, February, 25. As such, additional protests are possible on both dates.

A heightened security presence is to be expected in Kaduna 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.