On Monday, security forces forcefully dispersed protesters in Abuja who were demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The demonstrators, a mix of civil rights activists and pro-democracy groups, had initially gathered near the Transcorp Hilton in Maitama as part of the ongoing #ReleaseNnamdiKanuNow campaign. The peaceful protest, aimed at pressuring the Federal Government to obey a 2022 Court of Appeal ruling that discharged and acquitted Kanu, quickly turned tense as police fired multiple rounds of tear gas, affecting both protesters and unsuspecting passersby.
Panicked scenes unfolded across Maitama as commuters, traders, and motorists fled for safety.
Undeterred, the protesters regrouped at the Utako area, continuing to chant solidarity songs and display banners. However, armed security operatives again moved in and dispersed the crowd with tear gas.
Heavy security presence is now being reported throughout the Federal Capital Territory. Armed soldiers, police, and DSS operatives are stationed at key locations, including Eagle Square, the Federal Secretariat, Three Arms Zone, and Berger roundabout, where a military gun truck was also seen.
