A video showing a group of Muslims, including children and adults, marching with the Palestinian flag in Iwo, Osun State, has sparked strong reactions across Nigeria. The clip, which has been widely shared on social media, shows the group chanting Arabic prayers and slogans in support of Palestine.
The video was shared by Mr. Leye Olayinka, a media aide to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. In his post, Olayinka claimed the incident happened in Iwo, a town in Osun State known for its large Muslim population and long history of Islamic scholarship.
In the video, the group is seen walking along a street, waving the Palestinian flag and chanting “Free Palestine.” A man believed to be their cleric appeared to be leading the prayers, while children followed closely behind the adults.
Olayinka’s post quickly drew attention after he compared the march to the early stages of extremist movements in Nigeria. “Na like this Maitatsine take start in Kano then. Boko Haram also started like this in Maiduguri,” he wrote, suggesting that such public displays could lead to dangerous outcomes if not properly addressed.
His comment triggered intense debate online, with Nigerians expressing different views on the meaning and implications of the march. While some defended the group’s action as a peaceful show of solidarity with Palestinians, others raised concerns about national security, religious extremism, and the involvement of children.
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has continued to draw global attention, with protests and solidarity marches taking place in different parts of the world, including Africa. In Nigeria, where religious and ethnic diversity is sensitive, public demonstrations linked to foreign conflicts often attract scrutiny.
Many Nigerians who reacted to the video questioned why a foreign flag was being displayed in a Nigerian community. Some argued that while people are free to express opinions, such actions should not threaten national unity or peace.
One social media user warned that religious emotions could easily be exploited, especially in a country that has experienced violent extremism in the past. Others said comparing the march to Boko Haram or Maitatsine was unfair and could inflame tensions.
However, a large number of reactions focused on the presence of children in the march. Critics said involving minors in political or religious demonstrations they may not fully understand was wrong and irresponsible.
One user, identified as @waleshabie730, wrote: “Using children for a mission they don’t understand is barbaric. These kids need to learn to pay allegiance to Nigeria, not other countries. This is brainwashing. Our Senate should introduce stringent laws to deal with this.”
Similar views were echoed by others who said children should be protected from being drawn into ideological or political causes. They argued that minors should focus on education and national values rather than foreign conflicts.
Some Nigerians also raised questions about whether the march had official approval from local authorities and whether security agencies were aware of it. They called on the Osun State Government and security agencies to clarify the situation and ensure that public gatherings do not threaten peace.
Osun State, like many parts of southwestern Nigeria, has a history of peaceful coexistence between Muslims and Christians. Religious leaders in the region have often worked together to prevent conflict and promote harmony.
Because of this history, analysts say public sensitivity to religious marches and symbols is high, even when the intention may be peaceful. They warn that careless comments or actions could increase fear and misunderstanding among communities.
On the other hand, some Nigerians defended the marchers, saying the video only showed prayers and solidarity, not violence or hate speech. They argued that supporting Palestine does not automatically mean support for extremism and urged people not to jump to conclusions.
They also noted that protests in support of Palestine have taken place in many countries, including Western nations, without being labeled as security threats.
So far, neither the Osun State Government nor security agencies have issued an official statement on the video. There has also been no confirmation of whether the march was organised by a registered group or was a spontaneous gathering.
