The Nigeria Police Force has warned against any attempt to stage the planned #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest within or around the Presidential Villa, Abuja, emphasizing that anyone who defies a valid court order will be arrested and prosecuted.
According to reports, human rights activist Omoyele Sowore and several opposition figures have been mobilizing for a protest to Aso Rock on Monday, October 20, demanding the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
However, a Federal High Court in Abuja (Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2202/2025) on Friday issued an order restraining the organizers from carrying out protests within or around sensitive government areas, including the Presidential Villa, National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way.
In a statement released on Saturday, Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Benjamin Hundeyin, said the police will strictly enforce the court’s directive to maintain peace and protect national security.
“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.
The police reaffirmed citizens’ right to peaceful protest, but stressed that such rights must be exercised responsibly and within the confines of the law, particularly where public safety and national security are concerned.
“The Court’s intervention is therefore a safeguard, not a suppression, of constitutional freedoms,” the statement added.
The Force warned all intending protesters and counter-protesters to avoid restricted areas and refrain from actions that could provoke confrontation or disrupt public order.
Hundeyin further stated that anyone who uses the protest as a cover to incite violence, vandalize property, or endanger lives would face decisive action from law enforcement.
“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 statement warned.
He also cautioned that individuals inciting others via social media would not be spared, as digital evidence will be used during investigations and prosecutions.
The police assured Nigerians of their commitment to ensuring peace, protection of lives and property, and the free flow of traffic during and after the scheduled protest date.
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