October 20, 2025
By Tobi Akinnubi
Security operatives on Monday dispersed protesters demanding the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, in Abuja.
The demonstrators, under the banner #FreeNnamdiKanuNow, had gathered in the Maitama area of the Federal Capital Territory before being confronted by a combined team of police officers, soldiers, and other security agencies.
Eyewitnesses said the protesters were chanting solidarity songs and carrying placards calling for Kanu’s release when security operatives fired tear gas canisters and gunshots into the air to disperse the crowd. The action forced many demonstrators and passersby to flee the area.
Among those present at the protest were activist Omoyele Sowore and Aloy Ejimakor, one of Kanu’s lawyers. The protesters accused the government of unlawfully detaining the IPOB leader despite several court rulings ordering his release.
Before the rally, security agencies had issued warnings against public demonstrations in parts of the city, citing an existing court order restricting protests around sensitive areas, including the Presidential Villa and the National Assembly.
As of the time of filing this report, there were no official statements from the Nigeria Police Force regarding possible arrests or casualties. However, heavy security presence remained around key locations in Abuja, including the Unity Fountain, Federal Secretariat, and Three Arms Zone.
The protest coincides with renewed calls from rights groups and activists for the federal government to obey court orders on Nnamdi Kanu’s release.
