The Nigeria Police Force has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring public peace in line with constitutional responsibilities.
In a statement issued by Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, from the Force Headquarters in Abuja on October 18, the police said the action follows a subsisting order of the Federal High Court, Abuja Division, 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. An unverified order that the Force claimed restrains the respondents and their associates from holding protests around Aso Rock Villa, National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way.
The Force urged all groups, whether in support of or opposed to the ongoing agitation for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, to strictly comply with the court directive, which remains valid until further judicial pronouncements.
While reaffirming citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and expression, the police emphasized that such rights must be exercised within legal limits to protect public safety, national security, and the rights of others. The statement described the court’s intervention as a safeguard for peace and order.
All protest groups and counter-groups were cautioned to steer clear of restricted zones and avoid any conduct that could provoke confrontation or disrupt peace. The police assured that measures are in place to ensure traffic flow, the safety of lives and property, and the security of all residents.
The Force warned that anyone who exploits protests to incite violence, carry weapons, damage property, kidnap, or engage in acts capable of causing harm would face immediate arrest and prosecution under relevant criminal laws, including those addressing terrorism and violent conduct. It further noted that individuals using social media to promote violence would be tracked through digital evidence.
Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, directed the FCT Commissioner of Police and other operational commands to strictly enforce the court order and maintain strategic deployments across sensitive locations to safeguard residents and lawful activities.
The police advised organisers and participants to avoid the restricted areas, shun violence, and pursue grievances through lawful means rather than street demonstrations.
The statement reassured Nigerians that adequate security arrangements are in place to protect lives and property, urging law-abiding citizens to go about their activities without fear. Those found violating the court’s directive or the law will be arrested and prosecuted.
