Tension in Abuja Ahead of #FreeNnamdiKanu Protest Despite Police Ban

By Naija Enquirer Staff

As the Federal Capital Territory braces for the planned #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest led by activist Omoyele Sowore, the Nigerian Police Force has reiterated a ban on demonstrations in restricted areas of Abuja, citing a subsisting court order. However, organisers insist there is no valid injunction stopping the rally, setting the stage for a possible confrontation on Monday, October 20.

The protest seeks the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who has been in custody since 2021 on terrorism and treason charges. Supporters argue that his detention represents “selective justice,” while the Federal Government maintains that his continued trial follows due legal process.

Police Stand Firm on Court Order

Police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin said in a statement that the Force was acting in compliance with a ruling delivered on October 17 by Justice M.G. Umar of the Federal High Court, Abuja. The judgment in FRN v. Omoyele Sowore and four others restrains protests around high-security zones including Aso Rock Villa, the National Assembly, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way.

“Citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly are recognised, but they must be exercised responsibly,” Hundeyin warned. “Anyone found inciting violence or vandalising property will be arrested and prosecuted, with digital evidence used to track social media incitement.”

Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has directed the FCT Commissioner of Police to enforce the directive, deploying officers to strategic points to maintain law and order. The Force also referenced a recent U.S. Embassy advisory warning citizens to avoid potential protest zones in Abuja.

However, reports indicate that on Friday, Justice Umar refused to grant an ex parte motion filed by police lawyers seeking to halt the protest. The court directed the police to serve Sowore properly and adjourned the matter for hearing on Tuesday — effectively leaving the protest legally unrestrained, for now.

Sowore and Supporters Defiant

Reacting to the ruling, Omoyele Sowore posted on X (formerly Twitter): “There is no valid court order restricting the planned protest. Nothing can stop this mass movement.” He described the march to Aso Rock as a “historic action for justice, peace, and the rule of law.”

Sowore argued that any expired ex parte order has no binding legal effect and accused the police of double standards for not obtaining similar injunctions against counter-protesters. “The hypocrisy is glaring,” he said, revealing that a team of over 100 lawyers had been assembled to challenge any fresh legal move.

Support for the rally has spread across the South-East and beyond. Prominent Igbo leaders — including former Senate President Adolphus Wabara, ex-minister Prof. Ihechukwu Madubuike, and the Chairman of the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRM Eze Linus Nto Mbah — have endorsed the protest, arguing that Kanu’s detention fuels unrest and undermines national unity.

“Freedom has no tribal boundary; it’s a universal phenomenon,” said Prof. Madubuike. “This is not an Igbo rally; it’s a national action against injustice.”

Archbishop Raphael Opoko of the Methodist Church, Umuahia, also urged the Federal Government to heed calls for Kanu’s release, warning that “those who make peaceful change difficult make violent change inevitable.”

Women’s groups under the Igbo Women Assembly (IWA) have also mobilised members to join the protest, while calling for calm. “We cannot abandon our son,” said IWA president Lolo Nneka Chimezie. “We only plead for a peaceful rally and for the government to exercise mercy.”

The Nay Sayers

Some activists have cautioned against the protest, saying that plans are already in motion to secure Kanu’s release and that any mass action could jeopardise ongoing negotiations. They accused Sowore of attempting to exploit the situation for political or personal gain.

Northern groups have also issued warnings against the protest. The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) described the demonstration as “reckless and provocative,” urging the government to see Kanu’s trial “to its logical conclusion.” National Coordinator Jamilu Charanchi accused organisers of “emotional blackmail,” alleging that Kanu’s past activities had cost innocent lives in the South-East.

Similarly, the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) advised young Nigerians to stay away from the rally, citing “potential risks of breakdown of law and order.” The group referenced both the court order and the U.S. Embassy’s advisory in calling for “restraint and peace.”

At the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex, Executive Director Vera Ndanusa also warned traders against joining the protest, saying any unrest could “disrupt economic activities and cause unnecessary hardship.”

Abuja on Edge

With the protest only hours away, Abuja remains tense. Police patrols have intensified around major intersections, while human rights observers say the outcome could once again test Nigeria’s commitment to democratic freedoms.

The final word may yet come from the courtroom on Tuesday but for now, both protesters and police appear determined to hold their ground.