Court Reverses Earlier Decision, Stops Planned #FreeNnamdiKanu Protest in Abuja

A Federal High Court in Abuja has issued an interim injunction halting a planned protest demanding the release of detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu. The court order restrains human rights activist Omoyele Sowore, the Take It Back Movement, the #RevolutionNow group, and other unnamed persons from organising or participating in the #FreeNnamdiKanu protest scheduled for October 20.

The order followed an ex parte application filed by the Federal Government through the Nigeria Police Force, which argued that the planned protest in the Federal Capital Territory could threaten public peace and security. Justice M. G. Umar granted the injunction, effectively barring demonstrations at key locations, including Aso Rock Villa, the National Assembly, and the Unity Fountain in Abuja.

Sowore, a former presidential candidate, confirmed the development on social media, alleging that the order was issued in chambers after the judge had earlier declined the same request in open court. He criticised the decision, saying it undermined citizens’ right to peaceful assembly.

The protest, which had gained significant online momentum, was planned to press for Kanu’s immediate release from the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS). Several political figures, including a former Vice President and a former Senate President, had endorsed the demonstration.

Kanu, who has been in DSS detention since June 2021, faces a seven-count charge bordering on terrorism and treasonable felony. He was initially arrested in 2015 and later granted bail in 2017, but fled the country after a military operation at his home in Abia State. He was re-arrested in Kenya in 2021 and brought back to Nigeria under controversial circumstances.

While lower courts had previously struck out or dismissed several of the charges, the Supreme Court in December 2023 allowed his trial to continue. His continued detention has sparked renewed agitation from supporters and human rights groups.

Meanwhile, the United States Embassy in Abuja has warned its citizens to avoid protest areas in the Federal Capital Territory on October 20. In a security alert issued on Friday, the embassy cautioned that the demonstration could lead to traffic disruptions, confrontations, and potential violence, particularly around Eagle Square and the Central Business District.

The embassy advised US citizens to limit movement, avoid large gatherings, and monitor local news for updates. It also recommended that children remain home from school and that domestic workers commuting from outside Abuja stay indoors. While the consular sections in Abuja and Lagos remain open, the embassy urged citizens to exercise caution and maintain a low profile.