Police warn against carrying weapons to Kanu’s protest, say Aso Rock, 5 other places no go areas

The Nigeria Police Force has cautioned Nigerians planning to join Monday’s #FreeNnamdiKanu protest against carrying weapons or engaging in any violent activity, warning that it will not tolerate the use of dangerous items during the demonstrations.

In a statement issued on Saturday by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Benjamin Hundeyin, the police also reminded protesters of a subsisting court order restricting demonstrations in and around the Presidential Villa, as well as other key government locations in Abuja.

According to Hundeyin, the order was granted by Justice M.G. Umar of the Federal High Court, Abuja, on October 17, 2025, in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2202/2025 — Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Omoyele Sowore & 4 others. The order prohibits protests within and around Aso Rock Villa, the National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, the Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way.

“The Nigeria Police Force reaffirms its unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law and maintaining public peace in accordance with constitutional provisions,” the statement read in part. “In deference to the authority of the Court and in line with our mandate to enforce law and order, all groups—whether in support of or opposed to the agitation for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu—must adhere strictly to the court order.”

While reiterating citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and expression, the Force warned that such rights must be exercised within legal boundaries to safeguard public safety and national security.

The Police added that any protester or group found inciting violence, carrying weapons, or vandalising property would face arrest and prosecution under relevant laws, including those related to public order, violent conduct, and terrorism.

The  statement said the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed the FCT Commissioner of Police to ensure strict enforcement of the court order, maintain visible security deployments, and guarantee the safety of residents and lawful activities in the capital.

“All organisers and participants are advised to avoid restricted areas, refrain from provocative actions, and channel grievances through lawful avenues rather than the streets,” the statement added.

The Force further assured the public that adequate security measures had been put in place to protect lives and property during the planned protest.

PlatinumPost reports that the protest, being mobilised by rights activist Omoyele Sowore and others, seeks the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Kanu has been in detention since June 2021 after being arrested in Kenya and extradited to Nigeria under controversial circumstances described by his lawyers as a “forceful rendition.”

He faces charges of treasonable felony and terrorism-related offences over his campaign for an independent Biafra state.

Kanu’s trial has faced multiple adjournments, and despite several court rulings granting him bail or ordering his release, the federal government has yet to comply, citing ongoing national security concerns. His continued detention has drawn criticism from local and international human rights groups.