The “Free Nnamdi Kanu” protest, organized by former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, went ahead as planned on Monday across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Sowore had mobilized Nigerians nationwide to join the demonstration, which was intended to culminate in a march to the Presidential Villa, Abuja, demanding the immediate release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.
However, Justice M.G. Umar, in a ruling dated October 17, 2025 (Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2202/2025: Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Omoyele Sowore & 4 others), issued an order restraining Sowore and other groups from organizing any demonstrations for Kanu’s release in certain parts of the FCT.
The order specifically prohibited protests within and around the Presidential Villa, National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way.
Following the court order, the Nigeria Police Force mounted barricades around all access routes to these restricted zones, preventing Sowore and his supporters from reaching their planned destinations. Officers also fired teargas canisters to disperse commuters and discourage potential protesters.
Despite the heavy security presence, Sowore and his supporters relocated their protest to the Utako and Apo districts of Abuja, where they continued their demonstration. During the rally, security operatives arrested and detained Kanu’s brother, Prince Emmanuel; his Special Counsel, Aloy Ejimakor; and several other protesters. They were later arraigned and remanded in Kuje Prison by a magistrate court.
The development has continued to generate mixed reactions across the country.
Protest Counterproductive and Against Rule of Law – Ex-ACF Scribe, Anthony Sani
Former Secretary of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Anthony Sani, condemned the protest, describing it as counterproductive and inconsistent with the principles of the rule of law.
Sani told DAILY POST:
“Nnamdi Kanu is facing serious charges of terrorism and secession. Since he denies the allegations, the right thing is to allow the legal process to run its full course before the government decides what to do in the broader interest of justice and national unity.
“Protesting for his release undermines the rule of law and is, therefore, counterproductive.”
He further criticized members of Kanu’s legal team for participating in the protest, saying it showed a lack of faith in the judicial process.
“By joining the protests, Kanu’s lawyers have not demonstrated confidence in the rule of law. Forceful release of their client will not allow Nigerians to know whether he is guilty or not. The legal process must be respected.”
Protest a Huge Success – Rights Lawyer, Maduabuchi Idam
Human rights lawyer Maduabuchi Idam, on the other hand, praised the protest, calling it a resounding success despite the government’s attempt to suppress it.
According to him, the demonstration marked a significant turning point in the struggle for justice and the Biafra movement.
“The protest was a massive success. For the first time in the history of the Biafra agitation, Nigerians from diverse ethnic backgrounds came together to demand justice for Nnamdi Kanu and others who have been unfairly treated. The collective outcry against selective injustice has united many voices.”
Kanu’s Legal Team Has Right to Express Opinions – Idam Counters Presidency
Reacting to the Presidency’s suggestion that Kanu’s counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, should be sanctioned for commenting on sub judice matters, Idam defended Ejimakor’s constitutional right to free expression.
“Mr. Ejimakor is an Igbo man, a Nigerian, and a lawyer before being Kanu’s counsel. He has every right to express his opinion on national issues, including those that affect his client, as long as he doesn’t pass judgment on matters before the court,” Idam stated.
He accused the government of using state power to stifle dissent and weaponize legal provisions against free speech.
“It’s disappointing that a government with little regard for the rule of law chooses who to punish for expressing opinions. The state must stop using its powers to silence citizens.”
Protest Will Continue to Inspire Change – Idam
Idam emphasized that the protest had already achieved a lasting impact, urging the government to address the root issues rather than focus on punishing participants.
“This protest has succeeded and will continue to have a positive influence. The real question is: who benefits from Kanu’s continued detention? His release would serve greater public interest, especially when even convicts on death row have been pardoned recently,” he argued.
He called on the government to “act wisely and release Kanu” to ease growing tensions and promote unity.
Meanwhile, in solidarity with the Abuja protest, residents of Abia, Imo, Enugu, and Ebonyi States observed a sit-at-home, leaving major streets and markets deserted throughout the day.
0 Comments