The Nigeria Police Force has ordered a nationwide security lockdown ahead of planned demonstrations set for Monday, October 20, 2025, demanding the unconditional release of detained Biafran leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
A wireless message from Force Headquarters in Abuja, obtained by SaharaReporters, revealed that “unscrupulous elements” had concluded plans to stage protests in the Federal Capital Territory, with expectations that the movement could spread to other states.
The directive instructed all zonal and state commands to deploy covert operatives, place tactical units on standby in full kit, and confine other officers to barracks where necessary. Commands were also directed to render hourly situation reports beginning Sunday, October 19, until further notice.
The message read in part:
“Intelligence at the Inspector-General’s disposal reveals that some unscrupulous elements have concluded plans to carry out a protest in Abuja, with anticipation that it will extend to other parts of the country, on Monday, October 20, 2025, seeking the unconditional release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu… Adequate security measures must be emplaced to ensure that hoodlums or miscreants do not cause mayhem or destruction of lives and property.”
The directive also emphasised professional handling of the protests in line with police operating procedures, warning that any attempt to instigate violence should be “promptly resisted.”
The police alert follows increased mobilisation by civil rights activists, including Omoyele Sowore, pro-Biafran groups, and human rights lawyers under the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow campaign.
Sowore, convener of the #RevolutionNow movement, criticised the police response, accusing the government of “using repression instead of dialogue.” He stated on X (formerly Twitter):
“Rather than engage with the legitimate and peaceful demands of citizens, the police are turning their energy toward internal repression—a clear sign that the movement’s message has struck a nerve.”
The protest—scheduled to take place at the Presidential Villa, Abuja—has evolved into a nationwide call demanding Kanu’s release. The IPOB leader has been in DSS custody since 2021, following his controversial extradition from Kenya. Despite multiple court orders mandating his release, the government has continued to detain him on charges of treasonable felony and incitement.
Organisers insist the demonstrations will be peaceful, describing them as a “movement for justice, rule of law, and human rights.”
Meanwhile, the U.S. Embassy in Abuja has issued a security advisory warning its citizens to avoid protest areas such as Eagle Square and the Central Business District, citing potential disruptions and heightened security presence.
