Protest Over Nnamdi Kanu Grounds Abuja, Disrupts Economic Activities
Economic and social activities in Abuja, the nation’s capital, were on Monday disrupted as protesters took to the streets demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
As early as 7 a.m., hundreds of demonstrators led by Omoyele Sowore, convener of the #RevolutionNow movement and former AAC presidential candidate, converged on the Unity Fountain before attempting to march towards the Federal Secretariat and Presidential Villa.
Defying multiple warnings from security operatives and a court order banning the protest, the demonstrators were stopped near the Transcorp Hilton junction by heavily armed personnel who mounted Armoured Personnel Carriers across strategic points.
Kanu, facing a seven-count charge of terrorism and treasonable felony, has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since June 2021. He was first arrested in 2015, released on bail in 2017, and fled the country after a military invasion of his home in Abia State.
The protesters, made up of activists and pro-democracy groups, demanded that the government comply with a 2022 Court of Appeal judgment which discharged and acquitted Kanu.
Offices, Banks, and Ministries Shut Down
Security was tightened around key government institutions on Sunday night, with roadblocks mounted near the Presidential Villa, National Assembly, Federal Secretariat, and major ministries.
By Monday morning, several offices, banks, and government agencies were under lock and key, including the Ministries of Education, Labour, Health, Finance, and Foreign Affairs.
Civil servants told Daily Trust they stayed home to avoid possible clashes between protesters and security forces. “I didn’t want to be caught in crossfire,” one worker said.
Police Disperse Protesters with Teargas
The protest turned chaotic when security agents fired teargas and rubber bullets near the Transcorp Hilton to disperse the crowd. Sowore and others were seen fleeing as police ignored their pleas to allow a peaceful demonstration.
Protesters later regrouped in Utako and Berger areas but were again dispersed by security personnel. Soldiers and police extended checkpoints to Abuja suburbs, causing massive gridlocks around Nyanya, Zuba, and Bwari.
Journalists, Lawyer Assaulted
Several journalists covering the protest were reportedly assaulted. A cameraman with AFP had his equipment destroyed, while News Central TV crew was attacked by NSCDC officials.
Kanu’s lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, was also arrested and taken to the FCT Police Command.
Businesses, Traders Count Losses
Shops, banks, and markets in Wuse, Utako, and Mararaba were closed due to fears of violence. Traders lamented heavy losses as customers stayed away. “No business at all today,” said a trader in Wuse Market.
Tension Spreads to Umuahia
In Umuahia, Abia State capital, protests also paralyzed activities. Shops, banks, petrol stations, and schools were shut down as residents joined calls for Kanu’s release.
Presidency, Experts React
Presidential aide Bayo Onanuga condemned Kanu’s lawyer for joining the protest, describing his actions as “unethical” and calling for disciplinary action.
Legal experts and rights groups, however, faulted Kanu’s prolonged detention. Prof. Okoh Akubo (SAN) described it as “a troubling breach of democratic principles,” while security analyst Dr. Kabiru Adamu urged the government to adopt a political solution involving both northern and southeastern stakeholders.
Kanu’s Trial Resumes October 23
Following medical clearance from the Nigerian Medical Association, Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court has set October 23 for Kanu to open his defence in the terrorism case filed against him.
