A wave of coordinated protests demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), disrupted commercial activities and transportation across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and several South-East states on Monday.
The protests, spearheaded by activist Omoyele Sowore under the #RevolutionNow movement, saw heavy security deployments around key government institutions in Abuja, including the Presidential Villa, National Assembly, and Supreme Court.
Abuja on Lockdown
In the FCT, protesters attempting to march toward the Aso Rock Presidential Villa were forcefully dispersed by security operatives. Roads leading to the Three Arms Zone were barricaded, and access to federal ministries was temporarily blocked, causing major traffic disruptions across the capital.
Security forces, including the military, police, and the Department of State Services (DSS), took positions from as early as 6 a.m., conducting stop-and-search operations and enforcing movement restrictions around strategic government buildings.
Despite the police using tear gas to disperse demonstrators at locations such as Unity Fountain and Utako, protesters regrouped, chanting and carrying placards demanding Kanu’s release in line with court rulings previously ignored by the Federal Government.
Police: Protest Restrictions Were Legal
The police justified their actions, citing a Federal High Court order obtained ahead of the protest. Force spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin stated that the court barred protests around key government zones in Abuja and that officers only used “minimal force” to enforce the ruling.
Hundeyin dismissed claims that live ammunition was fired, clarifying that only tear gas was used. He added that protesters were warned multiple times before enforcement measures were taken.
Civil Defence Corps Condemns Demonstration
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) also condemned the protest, labeling it an “anti-government demonstration” disguised as a civil rights movement. The Corps confirmed deploying additional surveillance and personnel to protect national assets.
South-East Paralyzed by Protest Lockdown
In a show of solidarity, South-East states including Abia, Anambra, Enugu, and Ebonyi witnessed a total shutdown. Markets, schools, banks, and major roads were deserted as residents observed a de facto sit-at-home protest.
In Umuahia and Aba, IPOB supporters took to the streets chanting freedom songs, while prominent Igbo leaders renewed calls for Kanu’s release through peaceful dialogue.
James Uchegbuo of the Igbo Vanguard Group and Moses Onyegbule of the Igbo Ekene Global Development Union urged the Federal Government to consider the broader national implications of Kanu’s continued detention, calling his release a step toward justice, reconciliation, and unity.
In Anambra State, residents voluntarily observed the sit-at-home despite the IPOB leadership’s previous cancellation of the practice. Major markets in Onitsha and Nnewi were shut down, and the streets were largely deserted.
Ebonyi, Ondo Also Affected
Ebonyi State witnessed widespread closures of schools, businesses, and public offices, although no protest marches were reported. Security personnel were visible but eventually withdrew due to the absence of demonstrators.
In Akure, the Ondo State capital, many Igbo-owned shops were closed in solidarity. Traders said the action was their own way of participating in the protest, calling for President Tinubu to intervene in Kanu’s release.
Background
Nnamdi Kanu was arrested and extradited from Kenya in 2021 and remains in the custody of the DSS despite multiple court rulings granting him bail. His supporters have consistently raised concerns about his health and legal rights, accusing the government of disobeying judicial orders.
The latest protests reflect growing frustration among supporters and human rights activists over the government’s stance, with renewed calls for justice, rule of law, and dialogue.
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