US Embassy in Abuja Cancels March 4 Visa Appointments Over Security Fears Amid Iran-Linked Protests
Heightened security concerns in the Federal Capital Territory have forced the United States Embassy in Abuja to suspend all visa appointments earlier fixed for Wednesday, March 4, 2026.
In a public notice obtained by PulseNets on Tuesday, the mission confirmed that the decision followed intelligence pointing to possible demonstrations within Abuja. The embassy stated that the move was taken “due to the potential for protests in Abuja,” adding that “all visa appointments on Wednesday, March 4, 2026” have been cancelled.
The notice, dated Wednesday, March 4, 2025, further clarified that applicants affected by the disruption would be guided on the next steps. According to the statement, “Applicants will be contacted with information on how to reschedule.”
The diplomatic mission also advised members of the public to stay updated through its verified communication channels. “Please monitor our website and social media channels for further updates,” the statement added.
Appealing for patience, the embassy concluded: “Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.”
PulseNets learnt that the precautionary action comes against the backdrop of escalating tension following reports of fresh street protests in parts of Nigeria tied to unfolding developments in the Middle East.
Earlier accounts indicated that members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, IMN, under the leadership of Ibrahim El-Zakzaky, mobilised in Niger State over claims that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, had been assassinated in coordinated United States–Israel strikes on Iran.
Although international authorities had yet to independently verify the assassination claims as of press time, the reports triggered swift mobilisation among IMN supporters.
Eyewitnesses who spoke to PulseNets said scores of demonstrators gathered shortly after the reports surfaced on social media platforms. The protesters reportedly moved through major roads chanting slogans while waving Iranian flags and displaying placards bearing inscriptions such as “We Stand With Iran” and “Free Iran.”
In a message circulated among sympathisers and obtained by PulseNets, the group described the alleged assassination as an injustice and pledged unwavering solidarity with Iran.
“We strongly condemn the United States–Israel aggression against Iran. The blood of martyrs will not be shed in vain,” part of the statement read.
Observers reported that chants of “Death to America” and “Death to Israel” echoed during the march, as participants accused Western nations of undue interference in Middle Eastern affairs.
Security analysts who spoke to PulseNets noted that the demonstrations reflect the long-established ideological alignment between the IMN and the Iranian government, a relationship that has frequently attracted scrutiny from Nigerian security agencies.
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The IMN has historically organised rallies in support of Iranian interests and has consistently criticised the foreign policies of both the United States and Israel.
Diplomatic and security sources told PulseNets that the embassy’s temporary suspension of visa operations is widely viewed as a preventive measure aimed at safeguarding personnel, applicants, and diplomatic infrastructure amid concerns that protest activity could extend to Abuja.
