A peaceful demonstration in Abuja demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu reportedly turned chaotic when security personnel used tear gas and fired in the air to disperse protesters. Although live ammunition was fired, it could not be confirmed that the bullets were aimed at protesters, and no casualties were recorded.
The protest was led by activist Omoyele Sowore and members of the #RevolutionNow movement and was held in Abuja. Demonstrators demand the release of detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu. Their plan was to march towards the Asso Rock Villa, the seat of power of Nigeria’s president.
However, protesters continued to march despite police restrictions and maintained a peaceful protest despite heavy security.
The protest was later disrupted by the intervention of joint security teams including the police, Army and Department of State Services (DSS). They released tear gas and fired live rounds into the air to disperse the crowds.
While the use of force caused panic, there were no confirmed reports that any protesters were shot during the incident.
Video circulating online captured the tense moments as Sowore and several protesters fled for safety as shots rang out. Some protesters could be heard defiantly shouting: “Tear gas won’t stop us!” even as they fled the scene.
As of October 20, 2025, the latest news confirmed that the protests in Abuja had been forcibly dispersed by security personnel. Officials have not confirmed any injuries or deaths.
The Nigerian Police have arrested Nnamdi Kanu’s lawyer Aloy Ejimakor and his brother Prince Emmanuel Kanu over the ongoing #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protests in Abuja.
Omoyele Sowore, a human rights activist and convener of the Take Back movement, confirmed the development and demanded their immediate release from the Nigerian police.
“Police forces deployed in brutal crackdown on #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protesters arrest Nnamdi Kanu’s brother, his lawyer Aloy Ejimakor and innocent bystanders,” he posted on social media on Monday.
