Free Nnamdi Kanu Protest: Fresh Reactions Trail Abuja Demonstration Despite Police Crackdown
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Fresh controversy continues to trail Monday’s ‘Free Nnamdi Kanu Protest’ in Abuja, spearheaded by activist and former AAC presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, as Nigerians share mixed opinions on the movement’s legality, purpose, and outcome.
According to a report by Daily Post Nigeria, Sowore had mobilised supporters nationwide to converge in the Federal Capital Territory to demand the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). However, the protest was met with a court order and heavy police resistance.
Court Order Restricts Protest Areas
Justice M.G. Umar of the Federal High Court, Abuja, had on October 17, 2025, restrained Sowore and others from staging protests in sensitive areas, including Aso Rock Villa, National Assembly, and Eagle Square. Despite the restriction, demonstrators proceeded to march through Utako and Apo, prompting police to fire teargas and make arrests.
Akahi News learnt that several individuals, including Kanu’s brother Prince Emmanuel and his lawyer Aloy Ejimakor, were detained by the police and later remanded in Kuje Prison after arraignment at a magistrate court in Abuja.
Mixed Reactions from Nigerians
Former Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) scribe, Anthony Sani, criticised the protest, describing it as counter-productive and contrary to the principles of the rule of law. Speaking with Daily Post, he stated that agitations for Kanu’s release should not interfere with judicial processes.
“The best approach is for the law to run its course. Forceful protests do not serve the interest of justice or unity,” Sani said.
Akahi News gathered that Sani also faulted Kanu’s legal team for participating in the protest, alleging that doing so undermines public confidence in due process.
Human Rights Lawyers Defend the Protest
However, Abuja-based human rights lawyer, Maduabuchi Idam, argued that the protest was a massive success, marking a rare moment when Nigerians across ethnic divides united for justice.
In his words, “For the first time, prominent Nigerians from different ethnic backgrounds have openly identified with Mr. Kanu’s struggle.”
He further told Daily Post that the demonstrators exercised their constitutional rights, stressing that the police crackdown only amplifies Nigeria’s poor human rights record.
Akahi News notes that Idam also defended Aloy Ejimakor’s right to express his opinion on national issues, dismissing claims that his remarks were sub judice.
Protest Gains Symbolic Ground Despite Resistance
Despite the clampdown, Akahi News reports that the protest sparked solidarity actions in Abia, Imo, Enugu, and Ebonyi States, where residents observed a sit-at-home to support the movement.
Idam maintained that the protest “will continue to have a positive impact,” urging the government to address Kanu’s detention rather than punish peaceful demonstrators.
He questioned, “Who benefits from Kanu’s continued incarceration when releasing him could serve a greater national interest?”
As the debate over Nnamdi Kanu’s detention intensifies, Akahi News understands that both supporters and critics are watching how the government balances security concerns with constitutional freedoms.
For more verified updates on this developing story and other national issues, visit Akahi News.
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