Tension in Abuja as “Free Nnamdi Kanu” Protest Sparks Divided Reactions

Fresh reactions have continued to trail Monday’s “Free Nnamdi Kanu” protest in Abuja, organized by Omoyele Sowore, former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC).

Despite a court order restricting demonstrations around key government institutions, Sowore and hundreds of protesters took to the streets of the Federal Capital Territory demanding the release of the detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu.

Justice M.G. Umar of the Federal High Court had, on October 17, issued an injunction barring Sowore and others from protesting near the Presidential Villa, National Assembly, Force Headquarters, Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way.

To enforce the ruling, police heavily barricaded major roads around those areas and fired teargas to disperse crowds. Despite the blockade, protesters regrouped in Utako and Apo districts, chanting solidarity songs and displaying banners demanding justice for Kanu.

During the protest, security operatives arrested Kanu’s brother, Prince Emmanuel; his lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor; and several others, who were later charged to court and remanded in Kuje Prison.

Former Secretary of the Arewa Consultative Forum, Anthony Sani, described the protest as “counter-productive,” arguing that it undermines judicial processes.

“Nnamdi Kanu is standing trial for serious offenses including terrorism and secession. The right approach is to allow the law to take its course,” Sani said. “Protesting for his release is not in the interest of the rule of law.”

He also faulted Kanu’s lawyers for joining the protest, claiming their actions showed a lack of confidence in the judicial system. “Forceful release of Nnamdi Kanu won’t reveal whether he’s guilty or innocent,” Sani added.

However, human rights lawyer Maduabuchi Idam hailed the protest as a “massive success,” praising the courage of participants who defied intimidation.

“For the first time in the history of the Biafra agitation, well-meaning Nigerians from different ethnic backgrounds openly identified with Kanu’s struggle,” Idam said.

He also defended Kanu’s lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, against calls for sanctions, insisting he has a constitutional right to express his opinions.

“Ejimakor is a Nigerian and a lawyer before he is Kanu’s counsel. He has every right to speak on national issues as long as he doesn’t pass judgment on the court’s behalf,” Idam stated.

The protest has reignited debate on Kanu’s prolonged detention, with activists accusing the government of selective justice, while others insist that his case must follow due process.