The United States Embassy in Abuja has issued a security alert to American citizens ahead of a planned protest scheduled for Monday, October 20, in the Federal Capital Territory.
Organized under the banner #FreeNnamdiKanuNow, the protest is expected to draw large crowds to Eagle Square and the Central Business District. It was announced by activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore on October 9 via his X (formerly Twitter) account.
Sowore described the demonstration as a “historic” and peaceful march to the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, aimed at demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Kanu has been in custody since June 2021 following his controversial extradition from Kenya and is currently facing terrorism charges at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
In a statement published Friday on its website, the US Embassy warned that the protest could result in significant disruptions, including roadblocks, traffic congestion, and potential clashes between protesters and law enforcement.
“The Embassy advises all US citizens to avoid the protest area and to severely limit movement throughout the city on Monday, October 20,” the statement read.
The Embassy also recommended that children stay home from school and advised domestic staff commuting from outside Abuja not to report to work.
In addition, US citizens in Nigeria were urged to take heightened security precautions. These include avoiding protest areas and large gatherings, exercising caution in public places such as shopping centers, movie theatres, and places of worship, monitoring local news, maintaining a low profile, reviewing personal security plans, and keeping phones charged in case of emergency.
“Avoid areas where protests are taking place. Avoid crowds. Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests,” the advisory stated.
