A protest calling for the release of Nnamdi Kanu descended into chaos in Abuja on Monday, October 20, 2025, after security operatives fired tear gas and live rounds into the air, forcing protesters—led by activist Omoyele Sowore—to scatter.
The #FreeNnamdiKanu demonstration began peacefully around the Transcorp Hilton area and quickly spread to key parts of the Federal Capital Territory, including Unity Fountain. Chants of “Free Nnamdi Kanu now!”, “We have a right to protest!” and “Don’t tear gas us!” echoed as demonstrators marched, despite warnings from police and a standing court injunction.
However, the situation took a violent turn when heavily armed security personnel arrived and deployed crowd-control tactics almost immediately.
“There were about 10 trucks that arrived just as we began,” Sowore said on The Morning Brief on Channels Television. “There was no provocation. It was a peaceful, orderly protest. Then suddenly, tear gas and live rounds started flying.”
Some protesters reportedly shouted “Tear gas cannot stop us!” as they fled the scene, while others were seen coughing and stumbling amid clouds of gas. Eyewitnesses also claimed police detained several individuals, including bystanders.
Sowore said, “Some of our people were arrested. I was told Nnamdi Kanu’s younger brother and lawyer were also picked up and beaten.”
Security forces had earlier sealed off major routes including the Federal Secretariat, the Three Arms Zone, and Unity Fountain—traditionally known as a protest hub. Both vehicular and pedestrian access were blocked, with operatives stationed at strategic points leading to Aso Rock, Eagle Square, and the Court of Appeal.
In a separate incident, a joint team of military and police operatives reportedly fired tear gas near the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) secretariat in Utako, dispersing a crowd not directly involved in the protest.
Despite police claims that the protest violated an interim court order by Justice Mohammed Umar banning demonstrations near sensitive government sites, Sowore maintained that the protest was lawful and that the police had been duly notified.
He challenged the legitimacy of the order, asking, “Why aren’t protests against Kanu ever restricted?”
The activist also announced that a legal team of 115 lawyers is prepared to challenge the injunction once formally served.
Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has been in custody since his controversial re-arrest and extradition from Kenya in 2021.
Although previously granted bail in 2017, he fled the country during trial proceedings. The Federal High Court recently dismissed his no-case submission, keeping him behind bars.
His legal team argues that his health has deteriorated and is pushing for his transfer to the National Hospital in Abuja.
Pressure from southeastern governors continues, with calls for his release to de-escalate regional tensions.
Monday’s protest also coincided with the fifth anniversary of the #EndSARS movement—a significant date for many Nigerians who continue to demand justice for victims of police brutality and commemorate those killed during the Lekki Toll Gate incident in 2020.
(With additional reports from Channels TV)
