The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has issued a stern warning to groups planning demonstrations to demand the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, cautioning them against holding any form of protest within or around Aso Rock and its surrounding areas.
In a statement released in Abuja, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Force Public Relations Officer, explained that the warning follows a Federal High Court order issued in Abuja.
According to him, the court, in a ruling on October 17, in the case between the Federal Republic of Nigeria vs. Omoyele Sowore & 4 Others, issued an injunction restraining individuals and groups from organizing protests within and around Aso Rock Villa.
“The order restrains the respondents and any other persons or groups acting on their instruction from staging protests within and around Aso Rock Villa and its environs. Other restricted areas include the National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, the Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way,” the statement read.
The police advised both protesters and counter-protest groups to avoid the restricted zones and refrain from any actions that could trigger confrontation or disturb public order.
Hundeyin emphasized that the force is committed to maintaining the free flow of traffic, protecting lives and property, and ensuring the security of all law-abiding citizens.
He warned that anyone who uses protests as a cover to incite violence, carry weapons, vandalize property, kidnap, or engage in acts that could cause injury or loss of life will face decisive action. Offenders, he added, will be arrested, thoroughly investigated, and prosecuted under relevant criminal laws, including those relating to public order, violent conduct, and terrorism where applicable.
The police also cautioned individuals who incite unrest through social media or other platforms that they will be tracked, investigated, and prosecuted using digital evidence.
Hundeyin noted that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has directed the Commissioner of Police (CP) in charge of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), along with relevant operational units, to enforce the court order strictly. The CP has also been tasked with maintaining strategic deployments across vulnerable locations to ensure the safety of residents and lawful activities in the capital.
Organizers and participants were urged to respect the court’s directives, avoid restricted zones, and pursue their grievances through the courts and other lawful avenues instead of street protests.
Hundeyin assured that adequate security arrangements have been put in place to safeguard lives and property. He also advised citizens not involved in any demonstrations to continue their lawful activities without fear, warning that anyone found violating the court order would be arrested and prosecuted accordingly.