Abuja, Nigeria — Saturday, October 18, 2025
The Nigeria Police Force has issued a stern warning to all groups planning demonstrations in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), urging them to strictly comply with a subsisting court order prohibiting protests around key national institutions. The police further cautioned that any attempt to flout the directive or hijack lawful gatherings for violent purposes will attract “punitive measures” under the law.
In an official statement released via its X (formerly Twitter) handle on Friday night and signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Police reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law and safeguarding public peace in accordance with constitutional provisions.
The statement follows a Federal High Court Order issued by Honourable Justice M.G. Umar on October 17, 2025, in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2202/2025 — Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Omoyele Sowore & 4 others, which restrains the respondents and their associates from staging protests within and around Aso Rock Villa, the National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way in Abuja.
The Force emphasized that while citizens retain their constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and expression, such rights must be exercised “responsibly and within the confines of the law”, particularly where issues of public safety, national security, and the rights of other citizens are at stake.
> “The Court’s intervention is a safeguard, not a suppression of constitutional freedoms,” the Police clarified, urging all parties — whether in support of or opposed to the ongoing agitation for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu — to show respect for judicial authority.
According to the statement, all intending protesters and counter-protesters are strongly advised to avoid restricted zones, desist from acts capable of provoking confrontation, and ensure that their activities remain peaceful.
The Force further warned that any person or group that uses protests as a cover to incite violence, carry weapons, vandalise property, or engage in acts of terrorism or violent conduct will face immediate arrest, investigation, and prosecution.
> “Those who incite others on social media should take note — digital evidence will be deployed in investigations and prosecutions,” the statement read.
Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has directed the FCT Commissioner of Police and other strategic commands to ensure full enforcement of the court order, maintain visible and intelligence-driven deployments, and protect residents and lawful activities across Abuja.
Organisers and participants were advised to:
Avoid court-restricted areas;
Refrain from carrying weapons or engaging in provocative behaviour;
Seek redress through lawful and constitutional channels rather than street protests.
The Police assured that adequate security arrangements have been made to protect lives, property, and ensure free movement for all law-abiding citizens.
> “Anyone found breaching the court’s order or disturbing public peace will be arrested and prosecuted without hesitation,” the Force warned.
CSP BENJAMIN HUNDEYIN, anipr, mipra
Force Public Relations Officer
Force Headquarters, Abuja
PIONEER NEWS 