The Federal High Court in Abuja has rejected an attempt by the Nigeria Police Force to block the planned “Free Nnamdi Kanu Now” protest scheduled for Monday, October 20, 2025, near Aso Rock Villa, allowing the demonstration to proceed as planned.
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, had filed an ex parte motion seeking an immediate court order to halt the protest organised by activist Omoyele Sowore, citing security concerns over the proximity to the seat of Nigeria’s government.
However, Justice Umar of the Federal High Court refused to grant the request, ruling that Sowore must first be served with formal notice before any restraining order could be considered. The judge subsequently adjourned the case until Tuesday for a proper hearing.
In reaction, Sowore hailed the ruling as a victory for civil liberties, vowing that the protest would go ahead as a peaceful and lawful exercise of citizens’ rights.
“IG of Police Kayode Egbetokun dispatched police lawyers to sue me in an effort to halt the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest scheduled for Aso Rock Villa on Monday. However, the judge refused to grant the ex parte motion and adjourned the case until Tuesday for a proper hearing,” Sowore posted on his 𝕏 (formerly Twitter) account.
The protest, which will demand the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), aims to spotlight his prolonged detention and ongoing legal battles.
Observers have described the police’s failed bid as an attempt to forestall a politically sensitive demonstration at Nigeria’s most secure government zone.
With the court declining to issue a restraining order, the October 20 protest will proceed, barring new legal developments at Tuesday’s adjourned hearing.
Sowore reaffirmed that the rally would remain peaceful, stressing that it represents “a constitutional right to demand justice and an end to unlawful detention.”