(DDM) – Heavy clashes erupted in Abuja as security forces fired tear gas at protesters demanding the release of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that human rights activist Omoyele Sowore, several clergymen, and pro-democracy supporters were at the forefront of the #ReleaseNnamdiKanuNow demonstration near the Transcorp Hilton area.
The protest aimed to march to the Presidential Villa to demand the immediate release of Kanu, who remains in detention despite a prior appellate court ruling acquitting him in 2022.
Security operatives, including police and DSS personnel, had earlier deployed in strategic parts of the Federal Capital Territory, such as Maitama, the Three Arms Zone, Eagle Square, Federal Secretariat, Unity Fountain, and routes leading to Aso Rock.
Before the protesters could assemble at designated points, law enforcement fired multiple tear gas canisters, forcing passersby, traders, and commuters to flee in panic.
Witnesses described the chaotic scene, noting that residents going about daily activities were caught in the crossfire.
The demonstration was organised by Sowore and several pro-democracy groups, with participants chanting solidarity songs and calling for Kanu’s release.
Barrister Njoku Jude Njoku of the Nnamdi Kanu Defence Consortium condemned the continued detention, describing it as illegal and a national disgrace.
Njoku accused the government of disobeying a Court of Appeal judgment that discharged Kanu in 2022 and criticised the Supreme Court for allegedly violating the Doctrine of Finality and Section 36(9) of the Constitution by allowing retrial.
He also highlighted that Kanu is being charged under the repealed Terrorism Act of 2013, arguing that the law no longer applies.
Security agencies reportedly sought to prevent protesters from reaching restricted areas, reiterating warnings about potential violence or disruption.
Despite heightened security and lockdown measures, organisers insisted on proceeding with the protest, framing it as a defence of constitutional rights and the rule of law
The #ReleaseNnamdiKanuNow protest coincided with mounting political debates around freedom of expression, judicial independence, and allegations of political persecution in Nigeria.
Observers noted that the heavy-handed police response has drawn criticism for targeting not only protesters but also innocent civilians caught in the vicinity, highlighting growing tensions between civil society and the government.
As the nation watched, the demonstration underscored deep divisions over Kanu’s detention and the broader struggle for civil liberties in Nigeria.
The incident marks one of the most politically charged confrontations in Abuja in recent months, reflecting heightened activism and government sensitivity over separatist and pro-democracy movements.