US Embassy Issues Warning Ahead #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 protest, organised under the banner #FreeNnamdiKanuNow, is expected to attract large crowds to Eagle Square and the Central Business District.
The demonstration was announced by activist and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, via his X (formerly Twitter) account on October 9.
Sowore stated that the protest would take place on October 20, describing it as a “historic” and peaceful march directed toward the Aso Rock Presidential Villa to demand the release of the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.
He wrote:
“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.”
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 official website on Friday, the US Embassy warned that the planned protest could result in “disruptions and potential violence.”
The Embassy cautioned American citizens to stay away from protest locations and to limit their movement within the city during the demonstration.
“The US Embassy in Abuja informs US citizens that the ‘Free Nnamdi Kanu Now’ protest has called for peaceful demonstrations on Monday, October 20th, 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 Embassy advises all US citizens to avoid this area and to severely limit all movement throughout the city on Monday, October 20th,” the statement read in part.
For safety reasons, the Embassy further advised that children should remain at home and that domestic staff commuting from outside Abuja should not report to work on the protest day.
“The Embassy recommends children in Abuja stay home from school and domestic staff who travel from outside of Abuja to stay home as well,” it added.
US citizens in Nigeria were also urged to take heightened security precautions, avoid large gatherings, and remain vigilant.
“Avoid areas where protests are taking place. Avoid crowds. Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests,” the advisory continued.
The Embassy also advised Americans to monitor local news, maintain a low profile, and remain alert in public spaces such as shopping centres, cinemas, and places of worship.
“Review your personal security plans and keep your cell phone charged in case of emergency,” it concluded.
