Protests Sweep Abuja and South-East as Nigerians Demand Nnamdi Kanu’s Release

A wave of protests swept across Abuja and several South-East states on Monday as demonstrators demanded the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu. The coordinated demonstration led by activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, disrupted business and transportation activities while prompting heavy security presence around key government buildings in the Federal Capital Territory.

In Abuja, protesters gathered at the Unity Fountain, carrying placards and chanting solidarity songs before being dispersed by security forces. Roads leading to the Three Arms Zone, which houses the Presidential Villa, National Assembly and Supreme Court, were barricaded, causing severe gridlock around the city. Security patrols were intensified around Eagle Square, the Federal Secretariat and other critical institutions to prevent further gatherings.

Sowore, who mobilised supporters online, said the protest aimed to highlight the government’s disregard for court orders granting Kanu bail. Kanu has remained in DSS custody since his 2021 arrest and extradition from Kenya. His supporters have continued to express concern over his health and the government’s refusal to comply with multiple rulings ordering his release.

The police defended their use of tear gas to disperse protesters, insisting they acted under a valid court order restricting demonstrations near sensitive zones. Force spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin explained that officers only used “minimal force” after warnings were ignored stressing that no live ammunition was fired. He said the order covered areas such as the Aso Villa, National Assembly and Supreme Court, adding that law enforcement was duty-bound to enforce it.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps also condemned a protest at its headquarters, describing it as an anti-government action disguised as a justice campaign. The Corps’ spokesman, Afolabi Babawale, said over 50 people attempted to storm the entrance, warning that anyone found culpable would face prosecution.

Meanwhile, major cities in the South-East, including Onitsha, Enugu, Aba and Owerri, witnessed a near-total shutdown. Markets, banks and schools were closed as residents observed a sit-at-home in solidarity with the call for Kanu’s release. In Anambra, security was tightened while residents avoided public movement and in Abia, groups of Kanu’s supporters sang freedom songs calling for dialogue and justice.

Across the region, many traders stayed indoors, describing their action as a peaceful show of support for the IPOB leader. Some said the continued detention of Kanu undermines national unity and called on President Bola Tinubu to act decisively.