Hundreds of members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) on Saturday took to the streets of Kano in a massive protest to condemn an alleged statement attributed to U.S. President Donald Trump, suggesting the possibility of a military strike on Nigeria.
The demonstration, which spread across several parts of the metropolis, saw large crowds chanting anti-U.S. slogans while waving placards denouncing America’s perceived hostility toward Nigeria.
Eyewitnesses told reporters that the protest was peaceful but highly charged, with participants vowing to resist any form of foreign aggression. Many of the placards bore inscriptions such as “Hands Off Nigeria,” “No to Western Intimidation,” and “We Stand for Our Sovereignty.”
According to security sources, the mobilisation was largely coordinated through Hausa-language social media platforms, where posts claimed that the United States was planning to “attack Nigeria.” The claims have not been independently verified.
Videos circulating online showed youths marching through major streets, calling for global condemnation of Trump’s alleged remarks and urging Nigerians to unite in defense of the nation’s dignity.
“The statement is unacceptable,” one of the protesters said. “No foreign nation has the right to threaten Nigeria. This protest is to show our readiness to defend our country’s sovereignty.”
Analysts warn that the incident reflects a growing trend of anti-U.S. sentiment in parts of northern Nigeria, fueled by misinformation, distrust of Western policies, and emotional narratives linked to religion and national identity.
Observers also fear that unchecked rhetoric of this kind could deepen divisions or be exploited by extremist groups and political actors seeking to stoke public anger.
Meanwhile, security agencies have remained on alert in Kano and other northern states to prevent any escalation or hijacking of the protests by violent elements.
The U.S. government has not issued any official reaction regarding the alleged statement as of press time.
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