Massive traffic gridlock hit major roads in Abuja on Monday as police and other security operatives dispersed protesters demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The protest, tagged #FreeNnamdiKanuNow, was led by rights activist Omoyele Sowore and other supporters of Kanu, who accused the Federal Government of disobeying court orders regarding his release. The demonstrators had converged around major locations in the city including Maitama, Utako, and Unity Fountain, before being forcefully dispersed by heavily armed security agents.
Eyewitnesses reported that officers fired tear gas and live bullets to scatter the protesters, creating panic and confusion among commuters and traders. Several motorists and pedestrians were trapped for hours as key routes such as the Abuja-Keffi Highway, Nyanya-Maraba Expressway, and Central Business District roads were blocked.
The crackdown led to several arrests, including Nnamdi Kanu’s younger brother and his lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, who were reportedly beaten before being taken away by security personnel. Sowore, who led the march, described the incident as “a brutal attack on peaceful citizens exercising their constitutional rights,” claiming that live ammunition was fired at them.
Security operatives had earlier mounted checkpoints across the city following a Federal High Court injunction obtained by the police, barring protests near sensitive government areas such as the Presidential Villa, National Assembly, and Supreme Court. Police authorities justified the action as necessary to prevent a breakdown of law and order, saying the demonstration violated the injunction.
The protest comes amid renewed agitation by IPOB supporters over Kanu’s continued detention despite several court rulings ordering his release. Kanu, who was re-arrested and extradited to Nigeria in 2021, faces terrorism-related charges before the Federal High Court in Abuja. His legal team insists the government’s refusal to comply with earlier judgments undermines the rule of law.
Monday’s protest also coincided with the fifth anniversary of the EndSARS movement, symbolizing a broader frustration over human rights abuses and the shrinking space for civic expression in Nigeria. Commuters caught in the chaos expressed anger over the traffic disruption, which left many stranded for hours.
As of press time, the Federal Capital Territory Police Command had yet to issue an official statement on the number of arrests or possible casualties. However, human rights groups have called for an investigation into the reported use of excessive force and the alleged shooting of unarmed protesters.
The situation has sparked fresh debate about Nigeria’s handling of peaceful protests and the lingering detention of Nnamdi Kanu, whose case continues to test the government’s respect for judicial authority and civil liberties.