The Nigeria Police Force has warned all protest groups in Abuja to comply with a court order restricting demonstrations in designated high-security areas of the capital.
The directive follows a ruling by Justice M.G. Umar, delivered on 17 October 2025, in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2202/2025, Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Omoyele Sowore and four others, which restrains protests around Aso Rock Villa, National Assembly, Force Headquarters, Court of Appeal, Eagle Square and Shehu Shagari Way.
Police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin, in a statement, said the Force “reaffirms its unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law and maintaining public peace in accordance with constitutional provisions.
“In deference to the authority of the Court and in line with the constitutional mandate of the Police to enforce law and order, the Force hereby calls on all groups, whether in support of or opposed to the ongoing agitation for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, to adhere strictly to the provisions of the court order.
“The directive remains binding and enforceable pending further judicial proceedings.”
The protest, scheduled for Monday, October 20, 2025, seeks the release of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, who has been in custody since his 2021 extradition from Kenya and faces terrorism charges.
He added that the order remains binding and enforceable pending further judicial proceedings and urged all groups to comply.
Hundeyin stressed that while citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and expression are recognised, “they must be exercised responsibly.”
“The Court’s intervention is a safeguard, not a suppression, of constitutional freedoms. Accordingly, all intending protesters and counter-protest groups are strongly advised to avoid restricted areas and to refrain from any act capable of provoking confrontation or disturbing public order.
“The Force will ensure the free flow of traffic, protection of lives and property, and security of all law-abiding citizens.”
Credit: channelstv.com
