A trending video has stirred reactions on social media after police officers reportedly fired teargas at protesters demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), in Abuja.
The peaceful demonstration, tagged #FreeNnamdiKanuNow, was held in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Monday.
It was organised by human rights activist Omoyele Sowore, who had earlier announced the protest date, October 20, as a call for justice and the immediate release of Kanu.
Background on Nnamdi Kanu’s Detention
Nnamdi Kanu has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) for several years following his arrest and extradition from Kenya in 2021.
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Although a court of appeal once ordered his release, the Federal Government and the DSS have continued to detain him, citing national security concerns.
Many Nigerians and rights groups have described Kanu’s continued detention as unlawful and politically motivated. In response, Sowore and other activists decided to mobilise nationwide protests to pressure authorities to obey the court’s ruling.
Police Confront Protesters
According to the viral footage circulating on social media, the protest began peacefully in the early hours of Monday but soon turned chaotic.
Sowore, alongside Kanu’s lawyer Aloy Ejimakor and several other supporters, was seen chanting, “Free Nnamdi Kanu now!”
As police officers advanced toward the protesters, Sowore was heard saying, “Don’t teargas us.” Moments later, the officers reportedly fired teargas canisters into the crowd, forcing protesters and bystanders to flee for safety.
Eyewitnesses alleged that the security operatives used excessive force despite the peaceful nature of the demonstration. So far, it remains unclear whether any arrests were made or if there were casualties.
Growing Outrage and Calls for Justice
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation online, with many Nigerians accusing the authorities of suppressing free speech and peaceful assembly. Activists have vowed to continue pressing for Kanu’s release until the government complies with court orders.
Watch the video here…
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Security operatives f!red sporadly to disperse protesters demanding the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu in Abuja. pic.twitter.com/ga0TM2hQXp
— CHUKS 🍥 (@ChuksEricE) October 20, 2025
