The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has issued a stern warning to the organisers of the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest, cautioning that anyone found violating a court-order banning demonstrations around the Aso Rock Presidential Villa will be arrested and prosecuted.
The protest — calling for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) — is scheduled for Monday, 20 October, and has garnered backing from several opposition figures.
A Federal High Court in Abuja (Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2202/2025) on Friday issued an order restraining protestors from assembling in the vicinity of key government areas including Aso Rock, the National Assembly complex, Force Headquarters, the Court of Appeal, Eagle Square and Shehu Shagari Way.
In its statement, the Force’s Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, reaffirmed the NPF’s commitment to enforcing the court’s directive and maintaining law and order. The statement emphasised that while citizens retain the right to peaceful assembly and expression, these must be exercised responsibly and within the boundaries of the law—especially in matters concerning public safety and national security.
It warned that any individual or group using the protest as a cover for violent actions—such as carrying offensive weapons, vandalising property, kidnapping, or causing loss of life—will face arrest, investigation and prosecution under criminal laws including those pertaining to public order, violent conduct and terrorism. Furthermore, it noted that those instigating via social media or other platforms should expect digital evidence to be used in investigations and prosecutions.