The Nigeria Police Force has issued a stern warning to protest groups planning demonstrations in Abuja, particularly those pushing for the release of IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
The Force cited a recent court ruling restricting protests in high-security zones of the Federal Capital Territory.
The warning follows a judgment by Justice M.G. Umar on October 17, 2025, in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2202/2025, Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Omoyele Sowore & 4 Others.
The court barred protests in and around the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, National Assembly, Force Headquarters, Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way.
In a statement, Police spokesperson CSP Benjamin Hundeyin said:
“The Force reaffirms its unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law and maintaining public peace in accordance with constitutional provisions.”
“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 directive remains binding and enforceable pending further judicial proceedings.”
The planned protest, scheduled for Monday, October 20, is being organized under the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow campaign.
Kanu has been in custody since his controversial extradition from Kenya in 2021 and is facing terrorism-related charges.
While affirming citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and expression, Hundeyin stressed that such rights must be exercised responsibly:
“The Court’s intervention is a safeguard, not a suppression, of constitutional freedoms. Accordingly, all intending protesters and counter-protest groups are strongly advised to avoid restricted areas and to refrain from any act capable of provoking confrontation or disturbing public order.”
“The Force will ensure the free flow of traffic, protection of lives and property, and security of all law-abiding citizens.”
The police also warned that anyone found inciting violence, either in person or online, will be prosecuted.
The statement added that digital evidence will be used to track social media incitement and other forms of coordination likely to cause unrest.
Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed the FCT Commissioner of Police and operational commands to enforce the order strictly.
Security will be heightened at sensitive locations across the capital to maintain order.
In response, activist and protest leader Omoyele Sowore rejected the police’s interpretation of the court order. Writing on X (formerly Twitter), he stated:
“There is no valid court order restricting the planned #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest from Aso Rock Villa.”
Sowore argued that the order is legally ineffective since it was never served to the defendants or organizers:
“Under Nigerian law, an ex parte order that is not served within the required timeframe expires automatically.”
“In other words, there is nothing to defy, no binding restriction, no valid injunction. The people’s constitutional right to peaceful assembly and protest remains intact and unstoppable.”
He also accused the police of applying double standards, noting that pro-Kanu protest groups had demonstrated for three days without legal obstruction:
“The hypocrisy is glaring. The double standards are undeniable.”
Sowore announced that a team of 115 lawyers is prepared to challenge the court order once served:
“Our legal team will challenge any alleged court order the moment we are served on Monday. But let it be known that nothing can stop this mass movement.”
He further cautioned police authorities against the use of force or unlawful arrests, calling on officers to act within the law:
“We are calling on CP Dantawaye and every officer of the Nigeria Police Force to uphold their oath of allegiance to Nigerians, protect citizens, and respect the inalienable right to peaceful assembly.”
“Any use of excessive force or unlawful arrests will attract repercussions. The Nigerian people will hold accountable those who attempt brutality swiftly. Times are changing fast, and our citizens have been taken advantage of for too long.”
