Police Warn Against #FreeNnamdiKanu Protest Near Aso Rock, National Assembly

The Nigeria Police Force has issued a stern warning to those planning to stage protests demanding the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, cautioning them against holding demonstrations around Aso Rock Villa and its surrounding areas.

Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday in Abuja, citing a recent court order from the Federal High Court.

According to Hundeyin, the order was issued on October 17 in the case of Federal Republic of Nigeria vs. Omoyele Sowore & four others, restraining any protest around Aso Rock and several key government institutions.

“The order restrains the respondents and any other persons or groups acting under their instruction from staging protests within and around Aso Rock Villa and its environs,” Hundeyin said.

He added that the restriction also covers the National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, the Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way.

The police spokesman warned all intending protesters and counter-protesters to steer clear of the restricted zones, urging them to avoid actions that could trigger confrontation or disrupt public peace.

“Accordingly, all intending protesters and counter-protest groups are strongly advised to avoid restricted areas and to refrain from any act capable of provoking confrontation or disturbing public order,” the statement read.

Hundeyin assured the public that the police would ensure smooth traffic flow and the safety of lives and property, while any individuals or groups found using protests as a cover to commit violence or other criminal acts would be “dealt with decisively.”

“Any person or group that uses protests as cover to incite violence, carry or use offensive weapons, vandalise public or private property, kidnap, or engage in acts likely to cause loss of life or serious injury will be arrested, investigated, and prosecuted under relevant laws,” he said.

The FPRO also cautioned social media users against inciting unrest, warning that those who do so would be traced and prosecuted using digital evidence.

Hundeyin noted that the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, had directed the Commissioner of Police for the Federal Capital Territory and other relevant commands to enforce the court order strictly and ensure the safety of residents.

He further urged protest organisers to pursue their grievances through legal and constitutional channels instead of street demonstrations.

“The IGP has ordered visible and strategic deployments across the FCT to ensure public safety. Law-abiding citizens are advised to go about their normal activities without fear,” he added.

Opinion Nigeria News