Shiites hold nationwide processions Friday, reaffirm commitment to justice

The Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), also known as the Shiite movement, has announced plans for nationwide Ashura processions on Friday, June 26, 2026. These events mark the martyrdom of Imam Husain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, and are a significant observance within the Islamic calendar.

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The annual Ashura procession for this year will hold on Friday, Muharram 11, 1448 AH (26 June 2026), as confirmed by the office of Sayyid Ibraheem Zakzaky. This is to coincide with the observance in the holy city of Karbala.

The processions are scheduled to take place in over 600 towns and villages across more than 23 states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. The IMN stated that the timing of the procession on Friday, Muharram 11, 1448 AH, is intended to coincide with observances in Karbala, Iraq, the site of Imam Husain's historical martyrdom in 680 AD.

According to a statement issued by the movement's Media Forum, Ashura is viewed as a potent symbol of resistance against oppression and a reaffirmation of justice, truth, and sacrifice. The IMN emphasized that Imam Husain's sacrifice continues to inspire individuals globally to stand against tyranny and injustice.

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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.

"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 annual processions serve as a public demonstration of solidarity with Imam Husain and his pursuit of justice, expressing dissociation from Yazid and all subsequent tyrants.

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Our Ashura processions symbolise our solidarity with and allegiance to Imam Husain, the standard-bearer of truth and justice. They also express our dissociation from Yazid, his followers and every tyrant who walks in their footsteps, at any time and in any place.