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The Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), popularly known as the Shiite movement, has announced plans to hold Ashura processions across the country on Friday, June 26, to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Husain, grandson of Prophet Muhammad.
The group, led by Ibraheem Zakzaky, said the processions would take place in more than 600 towns and villages across 23 states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, as part of activities marking the Islamic month of Muharram.
In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by Ammar Muhammad-Rajab on behalf of the IMN Media Forum, the movement described Ashura as a symbol of resistance against oppression and a reaffirmation of the principles of justice, truth and sacrifice exemplified by Imam Husain.
According to the statement, this year’s procession was shifted to Friday, corresponding with Muharram 11, 1448 AH, to align with commemorations in the holy city of Karbala, where Imam Husain and his companions were killed in 680 AD.
The movement explained that while the main procession would hold on Friday, religious rites associated with Ashura could still be observed on Thursday, the 10th day of Muharram.
IMN said the events of Karbala remain one of the most significant moments in Islamic history, noting that Imam Husain’s sacrifice continues to inspire people around the world to stand against tyranny and injustice.
The group described the annual processions as a public expression of solidarity with Imam Husain and his struggle for justice, stressing that the observance goes beyond mourning to serve as a reminder of the need for courage in confronting oppression and defending the truth.
It reiterated its commitment to sustaining the annual Ashura commemorations across Nigeria, saying the activities remain central to its advocacy for justice and resistance to oppression.
The statement also referenced the famous saying of late Iranian leader Ruhollah Khomeini: “Every day is Ashura, and every land is Karbala.”
Ashura, observed on the 10th day of Muharram, commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Husain during the Battle of Karbala and is marked by millions of Muslims worldwide, particularly within the Shia tradition.
In Nigeria, the Islamic Movement has organised annual Ashura processions and mourning activities for more than three decades, drawing thousands of participants who march through major cities with messages centred on justice, sacrifice and remembrance.
Despite occasional disagreements with security agencies over public processions in previous years, the movement maintained that its Ashura activities remain peaceful religious observances aimed at preserving the legacy of Imam Husain and promoting the values of truth, justice and resistance to oppression.
