The Islamic Movement in Nigeria has announced plans to organise Ashura processions across the country on Friday, with members expected to participate in commemorative activities honouring Imam Husain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad.
The movement said the processions would take place in hundreds of communities across several states and the Federal Capital Territory as part of Muharram observances.
In a statement issued by its Media Forum, the group described Ashura as a powerful reminder of the struggle against injustice and a celebration of the values of sacrifice, truth and moral courage associated with Imam Husain.
According to the movement, this year’s nationwide procession was moved to June 26 to align with commemorative events in Karbala, Iraq.
“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 statement said.
The organisation noted that while the main procession would be held on Friday, worshippers could still observe other Ashura rites on the traditional 10th day of Muharram.
It explained that the events in Karbala continue to inspire people around the world to stand for justice and resist oppression.
“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 movement said the annual gathering serves as an expression of commitment to the ideals championed by Imam Husain.
“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,” it said.
The group added that the occasion goes beyond mourning, serving as a call for individuals and societies to uphold justice and speak against wrongdoing.
Reaffirming its dedication to the annual event, the movement pledged to continue promoting the message and legacy of Imam Husain through peaceful religious activities nationwide.
It quoted the late Iranian leader, Imam Ruhollah Khomeini, as saying, “Every day is Ashura, and every land is Karbala.”
For decades, Ashura activities organised by the Islamic Movement in Nigeria have drawn large crowds, with participants using the occasion to reflect on themes of sacrifice, justice and steadfastness in the face of oppression.