By Gideon Maxwell
October 20, 2025 — A demonstration led by human rights activist Omoyele Sowore demanding the release of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu took place in Abuja today, drawing a heavy security response.
Despite a Federal High Court injunction prohibiting the protest, Sowore and his supporters gathered at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Maitama under the banner of #FreeNnamdiKanuNow.
Protest and security response
Protesters, including Sowore and Kanu’s lawyer, Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, marched with placards and chanted slogans calling for Kanu’s release.
Security forces deployed tear gas, water cannons, and barricades to disperse the crowd. Gunshots were reportedly fired, forcing many demonstrators to flee.
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Several individuals were arrested, including Emmanuel Kanu, Nnamdi Kanu’s brother, and Barrister Ejimakor. A journalist covering the event was briefly detained, and equipment was damaged.
Legal and political context
Nnamdi Kanu has been detained since 2021 on charges relating to terrorism and treasonable activities.
Supporters argue that his continued detention is politically motivated and symbolic of systemic injustice, while the Nigerian government maintains that Kanu’s actions threaten national security and legal procedures are being followed.
Public reaction
The protest has heightened political tensions, especially among the Igbo community, who perceive marginalization by the federal government.
Civil society organizations condemned the use of force against demonstrators, stressing the importance of protecting constitutional rights. Sowore vowed that advocacy for Kanu’s release would continue despite the crackdown.
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