By Florence Joshua
ABUJA — Hundreds of Shi’a Muslims on Monday continued their annual Arbaeen processions across parts of Nigeria, with large groups seen trekking along the Abuja–Keffi Expressway as part of activities marking one of the most significant events in the Shi’a Islamic calendar.
Similar processions were also reported in parts of Kaduna, Kano and other northern states, where participants marched peacefully under the watch of security personnel.
The annual processions precede Arbaeen, which marks the end of the 40-day mourning period for Imam Hussein ibn Ali, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed during the Battle of Karbala in present-day Iraq in 680 AD.
Arbaeen is regarded as one of the world’s largest religious pilgrimages, attracting millions of Shi’a Muslims to the holy city of Karbala each year. In Nigeria, where many adherents are unable to travel to Iraq, symbolic treks and religious gatherings are held in various states to commemorate the occasion.
Along the Abuja–Keffi Expressway, security operatives were deployed to monitor the procession and manage traffic as participants occupied sections of the road. The march caused slow vehicular movement in some areas, although no security incidents were reported.
The processions featured prayers, religious chants and volunteers providing water and other support services to participants undertaking the trek.
The annual Arbaeen procession has become a regular feature in several northern states and the Federal Capital Territory, drawing hundreds of worshippers who participate in remembrance of Imam Hussein’s sacrifice and the values of faith, justice and perseverance associated with the commemoration.
The processions are expected to continue in the coming days ahead of the global Arbaeen observance, during which millions of Shi’a Muslims from different parts of the world will converge on Karbala, Iraq.
Leave a Reply