A fresh wave of counter-protests swept through Abuja on Monday, October 20, 2025, as a group of demonstrators rallied against calls for the immediate release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The opposing group converged near the Labour House bridge in the city’s central area around mid-morning, holding up placards that read, “No Pressure to the Rule of Law.” Their action was meant to counter the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow movement, which has been demanding Kanu’s freedom from detention.
Clad in matching shirts and waving the Nigerian flag, the protesters moved in a coordinated manner as patriotic songs played in the background. Their message was clear: Nigeria must respect the ongoing judicial process and resist any attempt to interfere with the courts.
Security operatives maintained a strong presence at the scene, setting up barricades to prevent road blockage and ensure order. Witnesses said at least three coaster buses had conveyed the counter-protesters to the venue. The demonstration lasted only a short while before the crowd dispersed peacefully.
Kanu has been held since June 2021 over allegations linked to terrorism and incitement of violence across the South-East region. The government maintains that his trial must run its full course before any consideration of release.
The counter-protest came just hours after security forces dispersed the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow demonstration organised by activist Omoyele Sowore near the Transcorp Hilton in Abuja. Teargas was reportedly fired to break up the crowd after tensions escalated.
Several arrests were made during the earlier protest, including that of Aloy Ejimakor, one of Kanu’s lawyers. The police also restricted movement in parts of the city centre, setting up checkpoints and blockades to contain unrest.
The day’s events caused major traffic delays across Abuja’s central districts, as both sides of the divide — supporters and opponents of Kanu’s release — continued to express strong, opposing views on one of Nigeria’s most polarising political issues.
