The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has cautioned groups planning demonstrations in Abuja over the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to respect a subsisting court order restricting protests around key government installations.
Kanu has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his re-arrest in June 2021.
Human rights activist and publisher of Sahara Reporters, Omoyele Sowore, had earlier announced plans for a protest march to the Presidential Villa on October 20 to demand Kanu’s release. The demonstration was expected to take place around Eagle Square and the Central Business District.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Benjamin Hundeyin, warned against the planned action, citing a recent order by the Federal High Court, Abuja Division, in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2202/2025 — Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Omoyele Sowore & 4 others.
The order, delivered on October 17, 2025, by Justice M.G. Umar, restrains Sowore and others acting under his instruction from staging protests within or around Aso Rock, the National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, the Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way.
“The Nigeria Police Force recognises and respects the rights of citizens to peaceful assembly and expression,” the statement read. “However, such rights must be exercised responsibly and within the limits of the law, particularly where public safety, national security, and the rights of other citizens are concerned.”
Hundeyin explained that the court’s intervention was intended as “a safeguard, not a suppression, of constitutional freedoms.”
The police urged all groups, whether supporting or opposing the agitation for Kanu’s release, to comply strictly with the court order and avoid restricted zones.
“All intending protesters and counter-protest groups are strongly advised to avoid restricted areas and refrain from any act capable of provoking confrontation or disturbing public order,” the statement added.
The Force further warned that anyone who exploits the protests to commit violence, vandalise property, or incite unrest — either physically or through social media — would be dealt with decisively.
“Offenders will be arrested, subjected to full investigation, and prosecuted under relevant criminal laws, including those relating to public order, violent conduct, and terrorism where applicable,” the police spokesperson said.
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