The United States Embassy in Abuja has issued a security advisory to its citizens ahead of the planned #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest scheduled to take place in Nigeria’s capital on Monday, October 20, 2025.
In the advisory released on Friday, the embassy cautioned that while the organisers have described the protest as peaceful, it could escalate into violence or cause significant disruption in parts of the city.
“The U.S. Embassy in Abuja informs U.S. citizens that the ‘Free Nnamdi Kanu Now’ protest has called for peaceful demonstrations on Monday, October 20, 2025,” the statement read.
The embassy said it anticipates heightened tension, possible roadblocks, and restricted movement, particularly around Eagle Square and the Central Business District.
“There may be traffic congestion and confrontations between police and protesters that could turn violent,” the advisory warned.
It therefore advised U.S. nationals to avoid protest zones and limit movement throughout Abuja on the day of the demonstration.
“The Embassy advises all U.S. citizens to avoid this area and to severely limit all movement throughout the city on Monday, October 20,” the statement added.
Parents and employers were also urged to take precautionary steps concerning their dependents and staff.
“Children in Abuja should stay home from school, and domestic staff who commute from outside the city are advised to remain at home as well,” the embassy said.
The planned protest has drawn widespread attention across Nigeria and beyond, with activists mobilising under the hashtag #FreeNnamdiKanuNow to demand the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore and other organisers have maintained that the demonstration will be peaceful, describing it as a civic call for justice and respect for human rights.
Sowore, a vocal advocate for democracy and civil liberties, has led several campaigns for Kanu’s release, urging both local and international actors to pressure the Nigerian government to comply with court orders regarding his case.
