Ahead of the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protests scheduled for Monday, October 20, in Nigeria’s capital, the U.S. Embassy in Abuja has issued a security alert to American citizens.
In a statement posted on its website Friday, the embassy warned that the demonstrations could result in disruptions, including roadblocks, traffic congestion, and possible violence, particularly around Eagle Square and the Central Business District.
“The US Embassy in Abuja informs U.S. citizens that the Free Nnamdi Kanu Now protest is expected to be a peaceful demonstration on Monday, October 20th, 2025,” the statement read. “However, there may be confrontations between protesters and law enforcement that could escalate.”
U.S. citizens have been advised to avoid protest areas and limit their movement significantly throughout the city on the day of the protest. The embassy also recommended that children stay home from school and that domestic staff commuting from outside Abuja not report to work.
Additionally, Americans in Nigeria have been urged to take extra security precautions.
The planned protest was announced by activist and former African Action Congress presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, via his X (formerly Twitter) account on October 9. Sowore described the upcoming demonstration — set to march toward the Aso Rock Presidential Villa — as a peaceful but historic action to demand the release of Nnamdi Kanu.
Kanu, the leader of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has been in custody since June 2021 following his controversial extradition from Kenya. He is currently facing terrorism-related charges before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
