Nnamdi Kanu: Police Warn Protesters To Obey Court Order, Vow Tough Action Against Violators

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has cautioned all groups planning to stage protests in Abuja to comply strictly with a valid Federal High Court order restraining demonstrations around key government institutions in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The warning follows a subsisting order by Justice M.G. Umar of the Federal High Court, Abuja, delivered on October 17, 2025, in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2202/2025 — Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Omoyele Sowore & 4 others, which barred any form of protest within and around Aso Rock Villa, National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way.

In a statement issued on Saturday, October 18, 2025, by CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Force Public Relations Officer, the Police reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring public order, noting that the directive remains binding until vacated by a higher court.

The Police emphasised that while the right to peaceful assembly and expression is guaranteed by the Constitution, it must be exercised responsibly and within the limits of the law, especially where national security and public safety are concerned.

“The Court’s intervention is a safeguard, not a suppression, of constitutional freedoms,” the statement read.

The Force, therefore, urged all parties — whether in support of or against the ongoing agitation for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, to respect the court order and avoid restricted areas to prevent clashes or disruptions to public peace.

The statement warned that anyone or group who defies the court order or uses protests as a cover to commit crimes such as vandalism, violence, kidnapping, or possession of weapons will face the full weight of the law.

“Any person or group that uses protests as cover to incite violence or engage in acts likely to cause loss of life will be arrested, investigated, and prosecuted under relevant criminal laws,” the Police warned.

The Force further noted that those inciting violence through social media or digital platforms will also be tracked and prosecuted using digital evidence.

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has directed the FCT Commissioner of Police and all relevant operational units to enforce the court order strictly.

He also ordered the deployment of personnel across strategic and sensitive locations within the capital city to ensure peace, protect lives and property, and maintain smooth traffic flow.

“Organisers and participants are advised to avoid restricted areas, refrain from provocative acts, and seek redress through the courts rather than the streets,” the statement added.

The Nigeria Police Force assured residents of adequate security arrangements to protect all law-abiding citizens and maintain normalcy across the capital.

“Law-abiding Nigerians should go about their daily activities without fear. Anyone found violating the court order or disturbing public peace will be arrested and prosecuted,” the statement concluded.

ABN TV reports that the warning comes amid growing tension in Abuja following calls for mass protests by groups demanding the release of IPOB leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, and counter-demonstrations by rival organisations.