The Nigeria Police Force has issued a strong warning to the organisers and participants of the upcoming #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest, cautioning against any attempt to demonstrate within or around the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
According to NEW DAILY PRIME, human rights activist and presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore is currently mobilising for a protest march to Aso Rock on Monday, 20 October, to demand the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). The planned protest reportedly enjoys the support of several opposition figures nationwide.
However, a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has issued a restraining order against holding any demonstrations within key areas of the capital, including the Presidential Villa, National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way. The injunction, delivered under Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2202/2025, was granted on Friday.
In response, the Nigeria Police Force released a statement on Saturday, vowing to enforce the court’s directive strictly. The statement, signed by Force Public Relations Officer Benjamin Hundeyin, affirmed that violators would be arrested and prosecuted under relevant laws.
“In deference to the authority of the Court and in line with the constitutional mandate of the Police to enforce law and order, the Force hereby calls on all groups — whether in support of or opposed to the ongoing agitation for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu — to adhere strictly to the provisions of the court order,” the statement read.
While reaffirming its respect for citizens’ constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and expression, the Police stressed that such rights must be exercised within legal boundaries and without compromising public safety or national security.
“The Court’s intervention is therefore a safeguard, not a suppression, of constitutional freedoms,” the statement continued.
Protesters and counter-protesters have been warned to avoid restricted areas and refrain from inciting unrest. The Police also warned against the use of protests as a cover for violence, vandalism, or any act likely to result in harm or threaten public order.
“Any person or group that uses protests as cover to incite violence, carry or use offensive weapons, vandalise public or private property, kidnap, or engage in acts likely to cause loss of life or serious injury will be dealt with decisively,” the statement emphasised.
The Police also noted that individuals who incite violence through social media or other platforms will be tracked, with digital evidence being admissible in investigations and court proceedings.
With tensions rising ahead of Monday’s scheduled protest, the Police have reassured the public of their commitment to ensuring the free flow of traffic, the protection of lives and property, and the safety of all law-abiding citizens.
