By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Tension in Abuja as Nnamdi Kanu’s Brother, Lawyer Beaten and Arrested — Sowore
Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has accused Nigerian security operatives of opening fire and brutalising protesters during Monday’s #FreeNnamdiKanu demonstration in Abuja.
Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, Sowore alleged that security agents used tear gas and live bullets to disperse peaceful demonstrators gathered at the Transcorp Hilton, where the rally kicked off.
According to him, several protesters were arrested, including Nnamdi Kanu’s younger brother and his lawyer, who were both allegedly beaten before being taken to the Nigeria Police Force FCT Command.
“We were peaceful and had promised there would be no violence. Suddenly, about ten trucks of armed officers arrived and started firing tear gas and live bullets. Luckily, no one was hit, but it was clear they wanted to scare us,” Sowore said.
Witnesses confirmed a heavy security presence across the city, with police, army, and civil defence personnel stationed around Eagle Square, Unity Fountain, and the Three Arms Zone. Access routes to these areas were blocked, and motorists were diverted as officers patrolled key junctions.
The protest went ahead despite an interim injunction issued by Justice Mohammed Umar of the Federal High Court, which barred public demonstrations near Aso Rock Villa, the National Assembly, and Eagle Square.
The Nigeria Police Force had warned that defiance of the order would attract arrests, stating that digital evidence would be used to track any incitement on social media.
Sowore, however, dismissed the order as “politically selective,” questioning why similar restrictions were not imposed on groups opposed to Kanu’s release.
Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has remained in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his controversial re-arrest and extradition from Kenya in 2021.
The Federal High Court recently dismissed his no-case submission, clearing the path for him to continue facing terrorism-related charges. His lawyers have raised concerns about his deteriorating health, urging the court to permit his transfer to the National Hospital, Abuja.
Monday’s demonstration also coincided with the fifth anniversary of the #EndSARS movement, a nationwide protest that called for police reform and justice for victims of brutality.
Despite the confrontation, Sowore vowed that the campaign for Kanu’s freedom would continue, insisting that “Nigeria cannot suppress lawful protests with bullets and fear.”
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