By Kingston Magare 20.10.2025
Despite being peaceful in their protest march, the Nigeria Police Force Monday descended on hundreds of demonstrators calling for the release of detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu in several cities across the country.
In Abuja the police cornered the protesters including human rights activist Omoyele Sowore around the Jabi Road and peppered them with teargas, some of the marchers were overwhelmed by the choking gas and they fainted, while others trying to escape got injured.
Before the gassing of the crowd the demonstrators carried various placards which read “Free Nnamdi Kanu Now” and “Obey Court Orders,”
Traffic in around the Federal Capital Territory was also delayed for several hours. The chaos spread to the Jabi Market where traders hurried shut down their shops as the police with a strong hand controlled the area.
Meanwhile security agents sealed up the Eagles Square, Federal Secretariat, Unity Fountain and roads leading to the Presidential Vila.
“There were about 10 trucks of security agents that arrived at the same time as soon as we started the protest and people were coming around.
“There was no provocation on our part; it was orderly and peaceful; it was an unprovoked attack from the police force and a combined team of security people,” said Sowore in Abuja.
In Lagos there was also police crackdown as flash points like Ojota Freedom Park, Lekki Toll Gate and Ikeja Under Bridge were taken over by the police and other security agencies. According to reports one of the organisers of the protest march in Lagos, identified as Declan Ihekaire, was taken into custody during the rally.
In major Southeast cities like Onitsha, Nnewi, Enugu there was lock down of commercial activities as resident stay back at home in solidarity the protest.
Banks, schools, hospitals, and government offices were closed, while roadside shops and markets also remained locked. Even youths, who are typically seen playing football and other games on the streets during sit-at-home days, were nowhere in sight.
Protesters marching for Nnamdi Kanu's release