The Nigeria Police Force has issued a warning to all protest groups in Abuja, urging them to comply with a recent court order that restricts demonstrations within designated high-security areas of the Federal Capital Territory.
The directive follows a ruling by Justice M.G. Umar on October 17, 2025, in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2202/2025: Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Omoyele Sowore and four others, which prohibits protests around Aso Rock Villa, the National Assembly, Force Headquarters, Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way.
In a statement, Police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin said the Force “reaffirms its unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law and maintaining public peace in accordance with constitutional provisions.”
He explained that in line with the court’s decision, all groups—whether supporting or opposing the release of the detained IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu—must comply with the order. “The directive remains binding and enforceable pending further judicial proceedings,” Hundeyin stated.
The police also reminded citizens that while the right to peaceful assembly is constitutionally guaranteed, it must be exercised responsibly. “The Court’s intervention is a safeguard, not a suppression, of constitutional freedoms,” Hundeyin said. “Accordingly, all intending protesters and counter-protest groups are strongly advised to avoid restricted areas and refrain from any act capable of provoking confrontation or disturbing public order.”
The Force warned that anyone found inciting violence, carrying weapons, or vandalising property would be arrested and prosecuted. It added that digital evidence would be used “to investigate social media incitement.”
Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has directed the FCT Commissioner of Police and other operational commands to enforce the order with visible deployments across sensitive areas to maintain security and traffic flow during the planned protests.
The protest, scheduled for Monday, October 20, 2025, is being organised by groups calling for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, who has remained in custody since his 2021 extradition from Kenya on terrorism charges.
Sowore Counters Court Order
Activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, one of the organisers of the planned #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest, has dismissed the police claim of a valid restraining order.
“There is no valid court order restricting the planned #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest from Aso Rock Villa,” Sowore wrote on X.
He argued that the alleged order has no legal effect since it was never served on the defendants or organisers. “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.”
Sowore accused the police of hypocrisy for not obtaining similar orders against groups that protested against Kanu’s release in recent days. “The hypocrisy is glaring. The double standards are undeniable,” he said.
He revealed that a team of 115 lawyers would challenge any 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.”
Sowore also warned security operatives against the use of excessive force or unlawful arrests. “Any use of excessive force or unlawful arrests will attract repercussions. The Nigerian people will hold accountable those who attempt brutality swiftly,” he said.
What You Should Know
The Nigeria Police Force has warned protesters in Abuja to obey a court order banning demonstrations near key security and government locations.
However, activist Omoyele Sowore has rejected the ruling, insisting that no valid order exists to stop the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest set for October 20, 2025.
