Members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), also known as Shiites, took to the streets of Katsina city on Tuesday to demand urgent government intervention amid escalating kidnappings and school abductions across northern Nigeria.

The demonstration followed recent mass abductions in Kebbi and Niger states, which have intensified public fear and outrage.

Protesters gathered at the Kaura Underpass and nearby flyover, staging a peaceful sit-out that temporarily slowed traffic. They carried placards denouncing what they described as the government’s “deadly silence” on the kidnapping crisis.

Public Frustration Mounts

Malam Bakatsine, a Katsina-based security analyst who monitored the protest, told SaharaReporters that the march reflected growing frustration among citizens who feel abandoned by authorities.

“The IMN demonstration is a warning the government cannot afford to ignore,” Bakatsine said. “People are no longer willing to endure the daily terror caused by bandits. The Kaura Underpass gathering symbolized a community at breaking point — tired of mourning, tired of waiting, and tired of empty assurances.”

Rising Insecurity Across Northern Communities

Northern communities have witnessed an alarming surge in abductions in recent months, targeting schools, highways, farmlands, and villages. Families report living in constant fear, uncertain when the next attack will occur. Coordinated assaults have left dozens missing, further eroding public confidence in the government’s ability to protect citizens.

The IMN protesters called on the Nigerian government to act swiftly to secure the release of abducted students and strengthen civilian protection measures.

“Peace cannot exist where insecurity thrives,” one organiser said, as chants of “Free our children!” echoed through the procession.

Efforts by SaharaReporters to reach the Katsina State Police Command for comment were unsuccessful, with calls and messages to the command’s spokesperson, SP Sadiq, going unanswered at the time of reporting.