Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has called on Nigerians to join a nationwide protest demanding the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, despite a court order restricting demonstrations around major government areas in Abuja.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter) on Monday morning, Sowore urged citizens to peacefully take to the streets.
“Good morning, wherever you may be this morning, do not stop moving. Carry a sign, sing a song, make a statement!” he wrote.
The activist had earlier on Sunday night welcomed supporters ahead of the planned protest tagged #FreeNnamdiKanuNow, praising their courage and commitment.
“We warmly welcome everyone who has travelled from far and wide to join the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest tomorrow. Your courage, sacrifice, and solidarity speak volumes. Together, we are writing history,” he said.
Sowore revealed that protesters would gather in front of Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, by 7 a.m., urging participants to “come ready, come peaceful, come determined.”
He also shared a Facebook post saying, “We want to put one million people on the streets of Abuja tomorrow for #FreeNnamdiKanuNow — let’s make it happen.”
However, the protest defies an interim injunction issued by Justice Mohammed Umar of the Federal High Court, Abuja, which restrains Sowore and other organisers from holding demonstrations in or around sensitive areas such as the Presidential Villa, National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way.
Reacting to reports of the order on Saturday, Sowore dismissed its legitimacy and accused authorities of double standards.
“Suppose a court order truly exists restricting protests around Aso Rock Villa — it begs the question: why hasn’t the same police force obtained a similar order against those protesting freely for three consecutive days opposing Nnamdi Kanu’s release?” he asked.
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“The hypocrisy is glaring. The double standards are undeniable,” he added.
Sowore further disclosed that his legal team, made up of 115 lawyers, would challenge the alleged order once formally served on Monday.
Despite the court’s ruling, the activist insisted that the protest would go on as planned, describing it as both peaceful and lawful.
“October 20 #FreeNnamdiKanuNow remains sacrosanct. We march peacefully, lawfully, and powerfully,” he declared.
The demonstration also coincides with the fifth anniversary of the #EndSARS protests of October 2020 — a historic movement that demanded an end to police brutality and is remembered for the Lekki Toll Gate shootings, a tragic event that continues to stir emotions among Nigerians.
