Nationwide Alert: Police Move To Counter #FreeNnamdiKanuNow Protests On Monday
#FreeNnamdiKanuNow Protests — A high-level security directive has been circulated nationwide ahead of planned demonstrations calling for the unconditional release of detained Biafran leader, Nnamdi Kanu, scheduled for Monday, October 20, 2025.
The Nigeria Police Force has reportedly activated heightened security measures across the country, following credible intelligence indicating that certain groups had finalised plans to stage coordinated protests beginning in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, with the likelihood of spreading to other states.
According to a wireless message obtained by PulseNets, the communication—issued by the Force Headquarters in Abuja—ordered all zonal and state commands to remain on maximum alert and to deploy both overt and covert operatives for intelligence gathering and rapid response.
The document, which PulseNets learnt was dispatched on Saturday, October 18, instructed commanders to confine some officers to barracks, keep tactical units in full operational gear, and commence active security surveillance beginning Sunday, October 19, until further notice.
An excerpt from the message read in part:
“Intelligence at our disposal reveals that certain groups have concluded plans to carry out a protest in Abuja, with the expectation that it could extend to other parts of the country on Monday, October 20, 2025, demanding the unconditional release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. You are directed to put in place adequate security measures to prevent any attempt by hoodlums or miscreants to cause unrest or destroy property. Such actions should be promptly resisted.”
The communication further directed officers to deploy covert operatives “to all nooks and crannies” for intelligence collection and monitoring. Commanders were also mandated to file hourly situation reports and maintain full readiness with “well-kitted standby teams at command headquarters, area commands, and divisional offices.”
PulseNets learnt that the internal memo emphasised strict adherence to standard operating procedures, including dress codes—camouflage uniforms for tactical units with ballistic helmets, and approved attire for officers in covert operations and special sections.
Meanwhile, the directive followed the growing mobilisation for the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest, spearheaded by human rights campaigners and pro-Biafran activists, including Omoyele Sowore and other members of civil society organisations.
Organisers told PulseNets that the protest was intended to “press home the demand for justice and respect for court orders,” referencing multiple rulings that have ordered Kanu’s release.
On Friday, the Federal High Court in Abuja reportedly dismissed a police motion seeking to halt the planned demonstration, a decision that observers believe intensified public mobilisation and official anxiety.
Speaking on the development, Sowore, who also convenes the #RevolutionNow movement, said via his X handle:
“Instead of engaging peacefully with citizens’ legitimate demands, the police are turning their energy toward repression and intimidation. That alone shows our message has hit the right nerve.”
He added:
“The people are awake, and the movement remains unstoppable.”
The protest, slated for Monday, October 20, is expected to begin at the Presidential Villa Gate in Abuja, before extending to major cities nationwide.
Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has remained in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his controversial extraordinary rendition from Kenya in 2021. Despite several court rulings granting him bail or ordering his release, the Federal Government has maintained charges against him, including treasonable felony and incitement.
Human rights groups coordinating the march told PulseNets that the action would remain peaceful and focused on demanding accountability, the rule of law, and respect for fundamental freedoms.
Also Read: Atiku, Sowore, others Leads #FreeNnamdiKanuNow Protests
Meanwhile, international partners have taken notice. The United States Embassy in Abuja issued a security advisory on Saturday, warning its citizens of potential road closures, disruptions, and confrontations around Eagle Square and the Central Business District, urging avoidance of protest routes on October 20.
