Abuja witnessed heightened tension on Monday as the Free Nnamdi Kanu protest, organized by activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, went ahead despite a court order banning demonstrations in key parts of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Sowore had mobilized Nigerians from across the country to march to the Presidential Villa to demand the immediate release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu. However, the Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice M.G. Umar, had earlier issued an injunction restraining protesters from gathering near sensitive government areas such as the Presidential Villa, National Assembly, Force Headquarters, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way.

In compliance with the ruling, the Nigeria Police Force mounted roadblocks across major entry points to the restricted zones and fired teargas to disperse protesters and commuters. Despite the heavy security presence, Sowore and his supporters regrouped in other areas of the city—particularly Utako and Apo—where they continued their demonstration.

The protest took a dramatic turn when police arrested Kanu’s brother, Prince Emmanuel, his lawyer Aloy Ejimakor, and several others. They were later charged to court and remanded at Kuje Prison.

Nigerians React: Rule of Law vs. Civil Rights

Opinions have remained sharply divided following the protest.
Former Secretary of the Arewa Consultative Forum, Anthony Sani, condemned the demonstration, describing it as “counter-productive” and a violation of the rule of law. According to him, Kanu’s ongoing trial should be allowed to run its full course without pressure from public protests.

Sani said, “The best approach is to let the law take its course. Protests calling for Kanu’s release are not in the interest of justice or national unity.”

He also criticized members of Kanu’s legal team who joined the demonstration, suggesting their actions undermine their confidence in the judicial process.

“A Massive Success” — Human Rights Lawyer Counters

In contrast, Abuja-based human rights lawyer Maduabuchi Idam hailed the protest as a “massive success”, praising the unity it inspired among Nigerians from different ethnic groups.

“For the first time in the history of the Biafra struggle, people from various ethnic backgrounds openly identified with Kanu’s cause,” Idam stated.

He further dismissed government criticism of Kanu’s counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, noting that lawyers also have constitutional rights to express opinions on national issues.

According to Idam, “The protest has achieved its goal by drawing attention to the injustice in Kanu’s prolonged detention. Instead of silencing dissenting voices, the government should focus on addressing the root causes.”

The Bigger Picture

Across the South-East states — Abia, Imo, Enugu, and Ebonyi — streets were deserted as residents observed a sit-at-home in solidarity with the Abuja protesters.

While the Federal Government maintains that Kanu must face trial for charges including terrorism and secession, supporters insist that his prolonged detention is unjust and politically motivated.

As reactions continue to pour in, one thing is clear — the Free Nnamdi Kanu movement has reignited national conversations about justice, civil rights, and the limits of state power in Nigeria.