The United States Embassy in Abuja has issued a security alert to its citizens ahead of a planned protest slated for Monday, October 20, in the Federal Capital Territory.
In a statement released on Friday, the US Embassy warned that the protest could lead to road closures, traffic disruptions, and possible clashes between security forces and protesters.
“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 protestors that could turn violent around Eagle Square and the Central Business District,” the statement read in part.
The planned demonstration, tagged #FreeNnamdiKanuNow, take off from Eagle Square and the Central Business District.
It was announced by activist and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, on his X account on October 9.
Sowore described the march to the Aso Rock Presidential Villa as a “historic and peaceful demonstration” aimed at pressing for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who has been in custody since June 2021 following his controversial extradition from Kenya.
“We now have a date for the historic #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest march to the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja. It is October 20 at 7 a.m.,” Sowore wrote.
The Embassy urged Americans to avoid protest areas, stay indoors where possible, and minimize movement throughout the city during the demonstration.
It also advised parents to keep their children at home and discouraged domestic staff commuting from outside Abuja from reporting to work that day.
“The Embassy recommends that children in Abuja stay home from school and that domestic staff who travel from outside of Abuja stay home as well,” it stated.
“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,” the embassy added.
Kanu, who is facing terrorism-related charges at the Federal High Court in Abuja, will begin his defence on October 23.
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