The United States Embassy in Abuja has issued a security alert to American citizens ahead of a planned protest scheduled for Monday, October 20, 2025, in the Federal Capital Territory.
The protest, organised under the hashtag #FreeNnamdiKanuNow, is expected to attract demonstrators to Eagle Square and the Central Business District.
The announcement of the protest was made by activist and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, on his X (formerly Twitter) account on October 9.
Sowore described the upcoming demonstration as a “historic” and peaceful march aimed at demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who has been in detention since June 2021 after his controversial extradition from Kenya.
The activist wrote, “We now have a date for the historic #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest march to the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja. It is October 20 at 7 am.”
In a statement released on its official website on Friday, the US Embassy cautioned that the planned protest could cause traffic disruptions and possibly escalate into violence.
*“The US Embassy in Abuja informs US citizens that the Free Nnamdi Kanu Now protest has called for peaceful demonstrations on Monday, October 20th, 2025, in Abuja.
“There may be roadblocks, traffic congestion, and confrontations between police and protestors that could turn violent around Eagle Square and the Central Business District.
“The Embassy advises all U.S. citizens to avoid this area and to severely limit all movement throughout the city on Monday, October 20th,”* the advisory stated.
The Embassy also urged residents to take extra precautions, recommending that children remain home from school and domestic staff commuting from outside Abuja stay home for the day.
“The Embassy recommends children in Abuja stay home from school and domestic staff who travel from outside of Abuja to stay home as well,” it added.
It further advised Americans in Nigeria to remain vigilant and avoid all protest areas.
“Avoid areas where protests are taking place. Avoid crowds. Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests,” the statement continued.
The Embassy also reminded citizens to monitor local news and maintain personal safety awareness.
“Review your personal security plans and keep your cell phone charged in case of emergency,” the advisory concluded.
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