Police Warn #FreeNnamdiKanuNow Protesters Against March to Presidential Villa

Police have warned #FreeNnamdiKanuNow Protesters against march to presidential villa.

NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has issued a stern warning to organizers and participants of the planned #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest, cautioning them against staging any demonstration within or around the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

The warning follows a court order from the Federal High Court, Abuja Division, in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2202/2025, which restrains the protest organizers from holding demonstrations near Aso Rock, the National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, Eagle Square, Court of Appeal, and Shehu Shagari Way.

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The planned protest, championed by activist Omoyele Sowore and supported by several opposition figures, is scheduled for Monday, October 20, to demand the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

In a statement released on Saturday, Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Benjamin Hundeyin, said the police would strictly enforce the court’s directive and arrest anyone who defies the order.

“In deference to the authority of the Court and in line with the constitutional mandate of the Police to enforce law and order, the Force hereby calls on all groups — whether in support of or opposed to the ongoing agitation for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu — to adhere strictly to the provisions of the court order,” the statement read.

The police emphasized that while citizens have the right to peaceful protest, such rights must be exercised within the limits of the law, especially where public safety and national security are at stake.

“Any person or group that uses protests as cover to incite violence, carry offensive weapons, vandalise property, or engage in acts capable of causing harm will be dealt with decisively,” the statement added.

The NPF further warned that digital evidence from social media would be used to identify and prosecute anyone found inciting violence or violating the order online.

Security has been tightened around Eagle Square, the National Assembly, and the Presidential Villa ahead of the planned demonstration.