The Nigeria Police Force has warned all protest groups to comply strictly with a subsisting order of the Federal High Court in Abuja, which restrains any form of demonstration within designated high-security areas of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The Force, in a statement issued on Saturday by its spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said the court order, delivered on October 17, 2025, by Justice M.G. Umar in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2202/2025 — Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Omoyele Sowore & 4 others, bars the respondents and their supporters from staging protests around Aso Rock Villa, the National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, the Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way.
According to the statement, the Police reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the rule of law and maintaining public peace in line with constitutional provisions.
“In deference to the authority of the Court and in line with our constitutional mandate to enforce law and order, all groups , whether in support of or opposed to the ongoing agitation for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu , are urged to adhere strictly to the provisions of the court order,” the statement read.
While acknowledging the right of citizens to peaceful assembly and free expression, the Force noted that such rights must be exercised responsibly and within the bounds of the law, particularly where issues of public safety and national security are involved.
“The Court’s intervention is a safeguard, not a suppression, of constitutional freedoms,” the Police said.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has directed the FCT Commissioner of Police and all relevant operational commands to ensure strict enforcement of the order. The IGP also ordered visible and strategic deployments across sensitive areas of the FCT to maintain peace and protect residents.
The Force advised all intending protesters and counter-protesters to avoid restricted areas, refrain from acts capable of provoking confrontation, and desist from carrying weapons or engaging in any conduct that could disturb public order.
“Any person or group that uses protests as cover to incite violence, carry offensive weapons, vandalise property, kidnap, or engage in acts likely to cause loss of life or serious injury will be dealt with decisively,” the statement warned.
“Those who incite others via social media or other platforms should note that digital evidence will be used in investigations and prosecutions.”
Hundeyin added that offenders will face full investigation and prosecution under relevant criminal laws, including those relating to public order, violent conduct, and terrorism where applicable.
The Police assured residents of adequate security arrangements across the capital, urging law-abiding citizens to go about their normal activities without fear.
“All organisers and participants are advised to channel their grievances through lawful and judicial means rather than street protests,” the statement concluded.
