The Nigeria Police Force has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring public order following a Federal High Court order restraining #FreeNnamdiKanu protesters and other groups from staging demonstrations in certain parts of Abuja.
The court, presided over by Justice M.G. Umar, issued the order on October 17, 2025, in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2202/2025 — Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Omoyele Sowore & 4 others.
The ruling bars the respondents and any individuals or groups acting on their behalf from staging protests within and around Aso Rock Villa, the National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, the Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the police urged all groups, including those supporting or opposing the ongoing agitation for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, to strictly comply with the court’s directive.
The Force noted that while the police recognise citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and expression, such rights must be exercised responsibly and within the boundaries of the law to protect public safety and national security.
“The Court’s intervention serves as a safeguard, not a suppression, of constitutional freedoms,” the statement read.
The Force also cautioned intending protesters and counter-protesters to stay away from restricted areas and avoid actions that could trigger confrontation or disrupt public order.
It assured residents that security personnel have been deployed to ensure the free flow of traffic, protect lives and property, and maintain peace in the Federal Capital Territory.
The Force warned that anyone who uses protests as a cover to incite violence, carry weapons, vandalise property, or engage in criminal acts would face arrest and prosecution under relevant laws, including those relating to public order and violent conduct.
It added that individuals who incite unrest through social media or other platforms would also be tracked using digital evidence.
The statement said the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed the FCT Commissioner of Police and other operational commands to enforce the court order and ensure the safety of residents and lawful activities across the capital.
“The Force advised all organisers and participants to avoid restricted zones, refrain from carrying weapons or engaging in provocative acts, and channel grievances through lawful avenues.
“It further assured law-abiding citizens that adequate security arrangements are in place, urging residents to go about their normal activities without fear,” the statement added.
