In a stern advisory aimed at maintaining peace within the nation’s capital, the Nigeria Police Force has issued a strong caution against any attempt to hijack demonstrations concerning the continued detention of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu. The Force has declared it will take decisive action against any individual or group that uses such protests as a pretext to incite violence, carry illegal weapons, damage property, or engage in activities that could lead to injury or the tragic loss of life.
Speaking in Abuja, Force Public Relations Officer CSP Benjamin Hundeyin made it unequivocally clear that offenders would face immediate arrest, thorough investigation, and subsequent prosecution under various relevant statutes. These laws include those governing public order, violent conduct, and, where applicable, the nation’s anti-terrorism legislation. Hundeyin also stressed that authorities would not tolerate incitement to violence on social media, assuring the public that those responsible would be identified and prosecuted using available digital evidence.
Crucially, the police representative issued a specific directive to all individuals and groups planning demonstrations, urging them to steer clear of the Aso Rock Villa and its surrounding areas. This restriction is based on an existing court order that limits protests within the sensitive government zone. Hundeyin referenced a Federal High Court order issued in Abuja on October 17 in the suit The Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Omoyele Sowore & 4 others, which explicitly prohibits demonstrations around the Presidential Villa and adjoining areas. This blanket prohibition extends to the National Assembly Complex, the Force Headquarters, the Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way.
To ensure a comprehensive enforcement strategy, Inspector-General of Police IGP Kayode Egbetokun has reportedly instructed the Commissioner of Police for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), along with all relevant operational commands, to strictly uphold the court’s mandate. This directive includes maintaining strategic deployments at locations deemed vulnerable to ensure the continued safety of all FCT residents.
Hundeyin affirmed that the police would remain focused on guaranteeing the free flow of traffic, protecting lives and property, and diligently upholding law and order throughout the FCT. He strongly advised both intending protesters and any potential counter-protest groups to fully adhere to the restricted zones and abstain from any actions that could provoke a confrontation or ultimately destabilize the public peace. Instead of resorting to street demonstrations, the police spokesperson urged organizers and participants to channel their grievances through entirely lawful and constitutional means, assuring citizens that comprehensive security measures are in place to safeguard all law-abiding citizens across the capital.
