The Federal High Court in Abuja has denied a request by the Nigeria Police Force to stop the upcoming “#FreeNnamdiKanuNow” protest, clearing the way for the demonstration to proceed on Monday, October 20, 2025.
The police, acting on the orders of Inspector General Kayode Egbetokun, filed an ex parte motion aimed at preventing the protest, which is being organised by activist Omoyele Sowore. The planned march is set to take place near the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
However, Justice Umar declined the police’s application, ruling that Sowore must first be served with court papers. The judge then adjourned the matter to Tuesday, October 21, for a full hearing.
Reacting to the decision, Sowore described the ruling as a win for civil rights. “The Inspector General of Police sent lawyers to stop the protest, but the judge refused their request and ordered them to serve me properly. The case will now be heard on Tuesday,” Sowore wrote on his X (formerly Twitter) handle.
The protest, organised under the hashtag #FreeNnamdiKanuNow, seeks the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Sowore earlier described the demonstration as a “historic” and peaceful march demanding justice.
The police’s legal move is being viewed by critics as an attempt to use the judiciary to block dissent in a politically sensitive area near Aso Rock.
With no restraining order currently in place, the protest is expected to proceed as planned. The court’s ruling on Tuesday will likely determine the legal future of the movement.
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