US Embassy Cancels Abuja Visa Appointments Over Protest Fears

The United States Embassy Abuja has cancelled all visa appointments scheduled for Wednesday, March 4, citing a “potential for protests” in the Federal Capital Territory.

In a statement posted on X, the embassy said affected applicants would be contacted with details on how to reschedule their appointments.

Protests Follow Iran Strikes

The decision comes amid protests by members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), also known as Shi’ites, over the reported killing of Ali Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader, during recent joint airstrikes by the United States and Israel on Tehran.

Demonstrations were recorded in Lagos, Kano, Niger, Sokoto, Gombe, Kaduna, Bauchi and Yobe states. Protesters waved Iranian flags, displayed portraits of Khamenei, and carried placards condemning both the United States and Israel while expressing solidarity with Iran.

The unrest follows escalating tensions in the Middle East after coordinated military strikes on Iranian targets.

Heightened Security Nationwide

In response to the development, the Nigeria Police Force has ordered tighter security measures across the country.

Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu directed commissioners of police nationwide to heighten surveillance and maintain public order.

The Shi’ite movement in Nigeria has historically aligned itself with Iran’s leadership and frequently organises demonstrations in reaction to political and military developments involving the Islamic Republic.

The embassy has not announced when normal visa operations will resume but assured applicants that updates would be communicated directly.