Tensions Rise Ahead of #FreeNnamdiKanuNow Protest in Abuja

There are growing tensions in Abuja as security forces prepare for a possible confrontation with the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protesters, who plan to march on the Presidential Villa today, Monday, demanding the release of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu.

This comes despite an interim order issued by the Federal High Court in Abuja restraining organisers from holding demonstrations near the Presidential Villa, National Assembly, and other sensitive government locations.

The Director of Mobilisation for the Take It Back Movement, Damilare Adenola, confirmed that the rally would proceed as scheduled in Abuja and across several South-Eastern states, describing it as a peaceful, constitutionally protected convergence. Opposition parties have endorsed the protest, calling for Kanu’s immediate and unconditional release.

Kanu, detained on charges including treason and terrorism, has remained in custody since his controversial extradition from Kenya in 2021. Supporters insist his detention is political persecution, while the Federal Government maintains that his prosecution follows due process.

The protest’s timing — coinciding with the fifth anniversary of the October 2020 #EndSARS demonstrations — has heightened security concerns. Adenola insisted that “marching peacefully anywhere in the country is our constitutionally guaranteed right,” vowing that no intimidation would deter them.

Justice Mohammed Umar’s injunction, granted after an ex-parte application by the Nigeria Police Force, bars demonstrations near Aso Rock, the National Assembly, Force Headquarters, Eagle Square, the Court of Appeal, and Shehu Shagari Way. The order remains in effect pending today’s substantive hearing.

Counsel to the organisers, Maxwell Opara, said his clients had yet to be served the order but confirmed that police were notified of the march. “They are expected to provide security. We don’t want miscreants to hijack the protest,” he stated.

Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore disclosed that over 115 lawyers, medical workers, and journalists had been mobilised to support protesters nationwide. He added that the mobilisation effort had gained significant traction through marketplaces, religious centres, and engagements with key figures, including former President Goodluck Jonathan and diaspora groups.

The demonstration has drawn wide political backing from opposition leaders such as Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, who urged the government to pursue dialogue rather than repression. Obi reiterated his belief that “there was no need for Kanu’s arrest in the first place,” describing negotiation as the only sustainable approach to resolving separatist agitations.

Kanu’s legal team remains divided on the protest. Senior Counsel Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN) said his focus remains on the court proceedings, while Aloy Ejimakor expressed full support and confirmed his participation, emphasising that peaceful protest is a civic and constitutional right.

Security agencies have since stepped up deployments. The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) warned protesters against vandalism, with FCT Commandant Olusola Odumosu declaring that officers would protect property and critical infrastructure while maintaining a non-violent approach.

The Nigerian Correctional Service has also declared all correctional centres nationwide as “red zones,” warning the public to steer clear to prevent security breaches during the protest.

As the nation watches, both sides appear resolute — protesters demanding justice and security agencies determined to maintain order.