Sowore Vows #FreeNnamdiKanu Protest Will Hold in Abuja Despite Court Order
Activist Omoyele Sowore has insisted that the planned protest calling for the release of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu will go ahead as scheduled on Monday in Abuja, despite a court injunction and police warnings.
Describing the planned action as a peaceful demonstration, Sowore said it has already attracted international attention, with the Federal Capital Territory set to be the ‘centre of gravity’ for the protests.
The Nigeria Police Force had cautioned agitators against staging any protest near Aso Rock, the nation’s seat of power. Police spokesman Benjamin Hundeyin explained that the warning followed an order from the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court, which restrained protest activities in the Aso Rock area.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Sunday, Sowore maintained that the protest would proceed, arguing that Kanu’s continued detention by the State Security Service (SSS) is illegal and defies the rule of law.
“We are here to let Nigerians and the world know that this action is going on as planned across the world. The centre of gravity will be Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, where Nnamdi Kanu is currently detained by the DSS,” Sowore said.
He criticised the federal government for ignoring the 2022 Court of Appeal judgment, which discharged and acquitted Kanu, describing his prolonged incarceration as an affront to judicial authority and a violation of fundamental rights.
Sowore also dismissed the police injunction restraining the protest, claiming it had expired and was no longer valid.
“The law is clear. Nnamdi Kanu’s detention is unlawful and unconstitutional. The Court of Appeal cleared him in 2022, yet he remains in custody. This is unacceptable in any democracy,” he said.
He added that although the Supreme Court later heard aspects of the case, it did not overturn the appellate court’s ruling, which declared Kanu’s rendition unlawful and his bail conditions unviolated.
“No one should be tried for an offence for which they have already been discharged and acquitted. That is double jeopardy, and it is prohibited under the law,” Sowore stated.
He further argued that the Terrorism (Prevention) Act 2013, under which Kanu is being prosecuted, has become obsolete and cannot lawfully be used against him.
“You cannot try anyone under a law that no longer exists. That law is dead and buried.”
Emphasising that the movement goes beyond Kanu’s case, Sowore said it symbolises the struggle for justice, dignity, and freedom for all Nigerians.
“This movement is not just about Nnamdi Kanu; it is about every Nigerian’s right to justice, dignity, and freedom. When the state violates one citizen’s rights, it threatens everyone’s liberty,” he said.
He assured that the protest would be peaceful and lawful, urging authorities to comply with court rulings.
“Our demand is clear: to obey the law, enforce the judgment, and release Nnamdi Kanu. We will march peacefully, powerfully, and lawfully. At the end of this protest, we hope that common sense and justice will prevail,” Sowore declared.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
