The United States has issued a security alert to its citizens in Nigeria following escalating tensions involving the US and Iran, as members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) staged protests in several states.
In an advisory on Monday, the US government urged Americans abroad to remain vigilant following reported military operations involving Iran. It warned of possible travel disruptions and advised citizens to monitor guidance from US embassies and enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for updates.
The alert followed widespread media reports alleging that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in coordinated strikes attributed to the United States and Israel. Iranian state and local media also reported that his wife, Mansoureh Khojasteh Bagherzadeh, died from injuries sustained during the attacks. There has been no independent international confirmation of the claims.
In Nigeria, IMN members held processions in Lagos, Kano, Bauchi, Yobe and Gombe states, expressing solidarity with Iran. In Lagos, protesters marched through parts of Maryland, carrying placards and calling for peaceful demonstrations.
Police authorities in Kano and Bauchi confirmed that security personnel monitored the protests, which ended without reported violence. The Kano State Police Command said officers were deployed to maintain order.
The demonstrations come amid heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and increased security advisories for US citizens worldwide.
