The United States Embassy in Abuja has issued a security advisory to its citizens ahead of the planned #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest scheduled for Monday, October 20, in Nigeria’s capital city.
In a statement published on its official website on Friday, the Embassy warned that the planned demonstrations could trigger disruptions and possible violence within the Central Business District, particularly around Eagle Square.
“The US Embassy in Abuja informs US citizens that the Free Nnamdi Kanu Now protest has called for peaceful demonstrations on Monday, October 20th, 2025, in Abuja. There may be roadblocks, traffic congestion, and confrontations between police and protestors that could turn violent around Eagle Square and the Central Business District,” the statement read in part.
The Embassy advised Americans to avoid protest areas and limit movement across the city during the demonstration. It also recommended that children remain home from school and domestic staff commuting from outside Abuja refrain from traveling that day.
“The Embassy recommends children in Abuja stay home from school and domestic staff who travel from outside of Abuja to stay home as well,” it added.
Additionally, the Embassy urged all U.S. citizens in Nigeria to maintain heightened security awareness and adhere strictly to official safety guidance.
The planned protest was announced by Omoyele Sowore, activist and former African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, via his X account on October 9. Sowore described the upcoming rally as a “historic” and peaceful demonstration aimed at pressing for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Kanu has been in custody since June 2021 following his controversial extradition from Kenya. He is currently facing terrorism-related charges before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
What You Should Know
Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has been a central figure in Nigeria’s separatist movement, advocating for the independence of the South-East region.
His prolonged detention since 2021 has drawn both local and international attention, sparking calls for his release. The upcoming protest, championed by activist Omoyele Sowore, underscores renewed tensions around his case and the continued debate over freedom, justice, and national unity in Nigeria.
