The Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), led by Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky, has announced plans to hold Ashura processions across more than 600 towns and villages in over 23 states and the Federal Capital Territory on Friday, June 26, 2026 .
The nationwide processions mark the martyrdom of Imam Husain, grandson of Prophet Muhammad, and are expected to draw thousands of followers in a public expression of solidarity with the values of justice, truth and sacrifice .
Procession Moved to Align with Karbala
In a statement issued by its Media Forum, the movement explained that this year's annual procession was shifted to Friday, corresponding to Muharram 11, 1448 AH, to coincide with commemorations in the Iraqi city of Karbala, where Imam Husain and his companions were killed in 680 AD .
While the public procession will hold on Friday, the movement noted that religious rites associated with Ashura can still be observed on Thursday, the 10th day of Muharram .
Symbol of Resistance Against Oppression
Describing Ashura as a symbol of resistance against oppression, the movement said the tragedy of Karbala remains one of the most significant events in Islamic history .
"Imam Husain's martyrdom at Karbala remains the greatest testimony to the moral victory of right over wrong, virtue over vice, principle over compromise, the oppressed over the oppressor, and ultimately, blood over the sword," the statement read .
The group stressed that the annual processions serve as a public demonstration of allegiance to Imam Husain's ideals and a dissociation from "every tyrant who walks in their footsteps, at any time and in any place" .
Security Advisory Issued
Meanwhile, the United States Embassy in Abuja has issued a security alert warning American citizens of expected processions and gatherings across Abuja and other Nigerian cities during the Ashura period .
The embassy noted that IMN activities have in the past resulted in physical altercations, roadblocks, traffic congestion, and confrontations with security forces, advising citizens to exercise heightened caution .
Decades of Commemoration
In Nigeria, the Islamic Movement has organised annual Ashura processions and mourning activities for more than three decades, with events typically attracting large crowds in major cities .
The movement maintains that its Ashura activities are peaceful religious observances aimed at preserving the legacy of Imam Husain and promoting the values of truth, justice and resistance to oppression, despite occasional tensions with security agencies over public processions in previous years .
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The Ashura procession is scheduled for Friday, June 26, 2026, across Nigeria. Followers are expected to march through major cities carrying banners and chanting messages centred on justice and remembrance of Karbala.
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