By Onoja Baba, Nigeria
Security operatives on Monday fired teargas to disperse protesters demanding the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, during a demonstration in the Maitama area of Abuja.
The protest, tagged #FreeNnamdiKanuNow, was reportedly led by activist Omoyele Sowore alongside Nnamdi Kanu’s special counsel, Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, and several other supporters.
The group had converged near the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) headquarters, chanting solidarity songs and calling on the Federal Government to release Kanu from detention.
In a livestream of the protest monitored by African Culture TV, the protesters were seen warning security operatives against using force when the atmosphere suddenly turned chaotic following the sound of gunshots and teargas.
The protesters were seen running for safety as security personnel moved to disperse the gathering.
Despite the disruption, Sowore and other protesters later regrouped at another location to continue their demonstration, insisting on justice and the unconditional release of the IPOB leader.
Nnamdi Kanu has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his arrest in 2021 and faces multiple charges, including treasonable felony.
His continued detention has sparked repeated calls for his release from human rights groups, political leaders, and international observers.
As of the time of filing this report, neither the police nor the DSS had issued an official statement regarding the incident.
categories
recent posts
NIGERIA: FG Moves To Unlock 1,600MW Stranded Power With New Grid Company Plan
NIGERIA: Frank Mba, Seven DIGs Retire as PSC Promotes Replacements
NIGERIA: Google Expands AI Search Support To Yorùbá And Hausa
