Tension gripped Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, on Monday as police fired multiple rounds of tear gas to disperse protesters calling for the release of separatist leader Nnamdi Kanu. The protesters, who began gathering as early as 7:00 a.m., were led by activist and Sahara Reporters publisher Omoyele Sowore.
Kanu, the leader of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (Ipob) movement, has been in detention since 2021 on terrorism charges, which he has consistently denied. Ipob advocates for the independence of the southeastern region of Nigeria, which its members call Biafra.
Eyewitnesses reported that police officers fired tear gas canisters at demonstrators near strategic points in Abuja, forcing many to flee for safety. Security operatives also blocked major roads, leading to heavy traffic jams and widespread confusion across parts of the city.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Sowore claimed that several protesters, including members of Kanu’s family and his legal team, were arrested during the crackdown. Videos shared online appeared to show chaotic scenes as officers confronted demonstrators, though authorities have yet to issue an official statement regarding the reported arrests.
The protest comes amid renewed calls for justice and dialogue over Kanu’s prolonged detention. Supporters argue that his continued incarceration violates court rulings and human rights, while the Nigerian government maintains that Ipob’s activities pose a national security threat.
Human rights groups have frequently urged authorities to handle the matter with caution to avoid further escalating tensions in the southeast, where pro-Biafra sentiments remain strong.
As of Monday evening, Abuja remained under tight security, with several routes still barricaded. Protest organizers have vowed to continue their demand for Kanu’s release, calling his detention “unjust and politically motivated.”
