Shiites rally in Abuja to condemn Israeli attacks on Gaza, show solidarity with Palestinians

Members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), also known as Shiites, have taken to the streets of Abuja in a show of support and solidarity for the Palestinian people following the recent retaliatory attack on the Gaza Strip and Hamas fighters by Israel.

Protesters from the Shiite community were seen brandishing Palestinian national flags as they marched through the popular Banex Plaza area, culminating their demonstration at the traffic light junction on Ahmadu Bello Way.

During the protest, participants chanted anti-Israeli slogans and made a poignant statement by setting their national flag ablaze to express their deep-seated anger.

The Israeli military’s bombardment of the Gaza Strip came in response to an unexpected attack by Hamas, resulting in the loss of lives among Israeli civilians. This escalation in violence has drawn global attention and condemnation.

The protesters issued a fervent call to action for Nigerians, urging them to break their silence and join their voices in supporting the oppressed Palestinian people. They celebrated what they viewed as a significant success for the Palestinians, emphasizing that their struggle is a fight against global injustice and a stand for oppressed people worldwide.

Sheikh Sidi Munir Sokoto, on behalf of the movement, issued a statement explaining the rationale behind the rally: “Palestine launched Al-Aqsa Flood to respond to the recent attacks by the Israel Occupation Forces on al-Aqsa mosque and the Gaza refugee camp. Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, located at the heart of Jerusalem’s old city, is the third holiest site in Islam. Supporting the struggle for the freedom of Palestine is not only for Muslims alone, but for all people of conscience.”

The statement further highlighted the factors contributing to the Palestinian resistance, including the 16-year Israeli blockade of Gaza, military raids in West Bank cities, violence at al-Aqsa, increasing attacks on Palestinians, and the expansion of Israeli settlements.

The protesters emphasized that the state of Israel’s actions are in violation of international law, and Palestinians are striving to liberate their homeland from 75 years of Israeli oppression and terrorism. They defended the legitimacy of armed struggle under international law and called for an end to the blockade of Gaza, which has led to deteriorating living conditions.

In closing, they emphasized the importance of supporting oppressed people, drawing from the teachings of Islam and the words of Martin Luther King Jr., who famously stated, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” They emphasized the interconnectedness of humanity and the moral duty to stand up against injustice.