The PUNCH has gathered that the closure of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, ordered by the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters over a security threat, was due to a planned protest by members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria.

In an official security notice issued on Monday night, the management of the stadium directed the immediate closure of all entrances to the stadium with effect from August 3, 2026, stating that the restriction would remain in force until further directives were received from the Police Headquarters.

The closure has grounded all sporting activities around the main bowl and Package B, with only a few offices operating. The closure affects all users of the facility, including athletes, football clubs, fitness enthusiasts and members of the public who regularly use the stadium for sporting and recreational activities.

A source told our correspondent that the move was precautionary.

“It was learnt that the Shiite group were coming to the stadium to stage a protest, and the action became necessary to forestall any form of breakdown of law and order,” the source, who pleaded anonymity because he was not authorised to speak on the matter, told The PUNCH.

It was gathered that the group had earlier requested permission to use the stadium facilities, but the request was reportedly declined by the management over security concerns.

Findings by our correspondent also revealed that all gates leading into the complex were under lock and key, with only the main entrance left open for security operations.

The stadium was under heavy security, with trucks belonging to the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies strategically positioned around the premises, while armed security personnel maintained strict surveillance to enforce the closure.

Further checks by our correspondent also revealed that the Shiite group held a protest in Abuja on Tuesday, causing disruptions in Mararaba, a satellite town bordering the Federal Capital Territory, with commuters experiencing delays.

Earlier this year, the group protested in some parts of Nigeria, condemning what it described as joint US-Israel aggression against Iran.

The PUNCH reported that the IMN defended its protest in solidarity with Iran, describing the action as a peaceful expression of its long-standing opposition to what it termed aggression against Muslim nations.

The IMN and security agencies have a history of clashes during protests in the Federal Capital Territory.

In one of the group’s demonstrations last year, a violent clash occurred between security operatives and IMN members during a procession marking International Quds Day near Banex Roundabout in Wuse 2.

The group claimed some of its members were killed, while the police confirmed the death of an officer.