Members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), widely known as Shi’ites, staged a major protest in the city of Kano on November 8, voicing strong opposition to recent statements made by U.S. President Donald Trump, in which he threatened possible military intervention in Nigeria.
The protesters, who gathered in large numbers, marched through several key streets in Kano, holding placards and banners that directly refuted Trump’s claim of an ongoing genocide against Christians in Nigeria. Many of them insisted that the U.S. president’s remarks were misleading, provocative, and capable of fueling unnecessary religious tension in the country.
During the demonstration, some members of the IMN were seen dragging the American flag on the ground as a sign of disapproval, while others displayed effigies of Trump. The protest was peaceful but highly expressive, drawing attention from residents and passersby.
Trump had earlier designated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern,” alleging that Christian communities were facing widespread attacks by terrorist groups. He further suggested that if the Nigerian government did not act swiftly, the U.S. might be forced to intervene militarily, even directing the U.S. Department of War to prepare a potential action plan.
The IMN, however, rejected these claims completely. In a strongly worded statement, the group described Trump’s comments as “inflammatory, baseless, and dangerous,” accusing Western leaders of deliberately spreading propaganda that could destabilize Nigeria’s delicate religious balance.
They argued that Nigeria’s problems are rooted not in religion but in corruption, injustice, political mismanagement, and the long-standing failure of leaders to address insecurity adequately. The Shi’ite group emphasized its commitment to peaceful coexistence and national unity, insisting that foreign powers should not exploit Nigeria’s challenges for political advantage.
The protest has triggered widespread debate across social media and among local communities. While some Nigerians agreed with Trump’s concerns about insecurity and attacks on Christian communities, many others criticized his approach, viewing it as an attempt to meddle in Nigeria’s internal affairs and escalate tensions.
The situation continues to generate strong reactions nationwide as citizens watch closely to see how both governments respond to the rising controversy.