US Embassy Issues Security Alert Ahead of #FreeNnamdiKanuNow Protest in Abuja
Security Alert: US Embassy Warns of Possible Unrest Before #FreeNnamdiKanuNow Protest in Abuja
The United States embassy in Abuja has issued a security alert to its citizens ahead of a planned protest scheduled for Monday in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The demonstration, organised under the banner #FreeNnamdiKanuNow, is expected to attract large crowds to Eagle Square and the Central Business District.
The protest was announced by activist and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, on his X (formerly Twitter) account on October 9.
Sowore said the protest would take place on October 20 and would move toward the Aso Rock presidential villa.
He described the planned march as a “historic” and peaceful demonstration aimed at securing the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
“We now have a date for the historic #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest march to the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja. It is October 20 at 7am,” he wrote.
Kanu, who is facing terrorism charges at the Federal High Court in Abuja, has been in custody since June 2021 following his controversial extradition from Kenya.
In a statement published on its website on Friday, the embassy cautioned that the protest could lead to disruptions and potential violence.
It advised US citizens to avoid protest areas and limit their movement across the city on Monday.
The statement read: “The US embassy in Abuja informs US citizens that the Free Nnamdi Kanu Now protest has called for peaceful demonstrations on Monday, October 20, 2025, in Abuja.
“There may be roadblocks, traffic congestion, and confrontations between police and protesters that could turn violent around Eagle Square and the Central Business District. The embassy advises all US citizens to avoid this area and to severely limit all movement throughout the city on Monday, October 20.
“The embassy recommends children in Abuja stay home from school and domestic staff who travel from outside of Abuja to stay home as well.
“Avoid areas where protests are taking place. Avoid crowds. Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.
“Review your personal security plans and keep your cell phone charged in case of emergency.”