The temporary shutdown of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja was reportedly linked to intelligence about a planned demonstration by members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN).
On Monday night, the stadium management released a security advisory announcing the immediate closure of every entrance into the facility from August 3, 2026. According to the notice, the restriction was introduced on the directive of the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters and would remain in place until further instructions were issued.
The decision brought sporting and recreational activities at both the main bowl and Package B to a standstill. Athletes, football teams, joggers, fitness groups and other regular users were unable to access the complex, while only a handful of administrative offices continued operations.
A source familiar with the development said the action was taken to prevent possible security breaches.
According to the source, who requested anonymity because they were not authorised to comment publicly, security agencies received information that members of the IMN intended to gather at the stadium for a protest. The precautionary closure was therefore considered necessary to avoid any disturbance of public order.
The source further disclosed that the organisation had previously sought approval to use the stadium for its activities, but the request was reportedly turned down by the management due to security considerations.
A visit to the facility showed that nearly all access points had been locked, with only the main gate left open for security personnel carrying out official duties.
Security presence around the stadium was also noticeably increased. Vehicles belonging to the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies were stationed at strategic locations, while heavily armed operatives monitored the area to ensure compliance with the restriction.
Meanwhile, members of the IMN staged a protest in Abuja on Tuesday, leading to traffic disruptions around Mararaba, a busy community on the outskirts of the Federal Capital Territory. Many commuters experienced delays as a result of the demonstration.
The group has organised similar protests in recent months, including rallies condemning what it described as the joint actions of the United States and Israel against Iran.
The IMN has consistently maintained that its demonstrations in support of Iran are peaceful and reflect its long-standing opposition to what it considers attacks on Muslim nations.
Relations between the movement and security agencies have often been tense, with several protests in the Federal Capital Territory ending in confrontations.
One such incident occurred during last year’s International Quds Day procession near Banex Roundabout in Wuse 2, where clashes broke out between IMN members and security operatives. The movement alleged that several of its supporters lost their lives, while the police confirmed that one of its officers was killed during the confrontation.
