The Federal High Court in Abuja has turned down an application by the Nigeria Police Force seeking to restrain activist Omoyele Sowore from holding the “Free Nnamdi Kanu Now” protest scheduled for Monday, October 20, 2025.
The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, had filed an ex parte motion through police lawyers to stop the planned demonstration near the Aso Rock Villa, describing it as a potential threat to public order.
However, Justice Umar of the Federal High Court declined to grant the police request, stating that it would be improper to issue an order without hearing from the other party.
The judge instead directed the police to formally serve Sowore with their application and adjourned the case until Tuesday, October 21, for a full hearing.
Speaking after the ruling, Sowore described the court’s decision as a triumph for democracy and the rule of law.
“This is a victory for civil liberties,” Sowore said in a statement posted on his X handle on Friday.
“The police went to court secretly to stop our peaceful #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest, but the judge refused to be used.
Justice Umar ordered them to serve me properly and come back for a fair hearing next week.”
The protest, tagged #FreeNnamdiKanuNow, aims to draw attention to the continued detention of the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu.
Sowore had earlier announced that the demonstration would take place at the Presidential Villa in Abuja and described it as a peaceful call for justice.
“The protest will be peaceful and lawful. We are simply demanding fairness and the unconditional release of Nnamdi Kanu, who has been detained unjustly for too long,” Sowore said.
Legal analysts say the court’s refusal to grant the police motion means the protest can proceed as planned on Monday, as there is currently no legal barrier preventing it.
Meanwhile, security analysts warn that the protest’s proximity to the seat of power could lead to heightened tension between protesters and law enforcement agencies if not properly managed.
The matter will continue on Tuesday, when the court is expected to hear both parties before deciding on the legality of the demonstration.
