ABUJA – A protest demanding the unconditional release of Nnamdi Kanu spiraled into chaos on Tuesday, as a heavy-handed security response not only dispersed demonstrators but also brought business and traffic activities in the upscale Maitama district of Abuja to a grinding halt.
The #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest, led by activist Omoyele Sowore and Kanu’s lawyer, Barr. Aloy Ejimakor, triggered a massive deployment of joint security forces, whose actions have drawn widespread criticism from residents and commuters caught in the fray.
What began as a peaceful gathering near the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) headquarters quickly escalated. Chants of “Free Nnamdi Kanu Now” were soon drowned out by the sounds of gunshots and the acrid smell of tear gas, as security operatives moved in to forcefully break up the assembly.
City Gridlocked Amidst Chaos
The security operation had a ripple effect far beyond the protest site. Major roads in and around Maitama were barricaded, leaving hundreds of motorists stranded for hours. The gridlock paralyzed commercial activities, with many businesses forced to close abruptly as the unrest unfolded.
“I have been stuck in this traffic for over two hours. This is a main artery in the capital; the response is completely disproportionate,” said an angry motorist who gave his name as Tunde. “They have shut down the entire area because of a peaceful protest.”
Another resident, Chinyere Okoro, voiced her frustration: “The gunshots were terrifying. We were told to stay indoors. This is not how a government should respond to its citizens speaking their minds.”
Protest Leaders Condemn “Excessive Force”
The protest leaders narrowly avoided arrest as they scampered to safety amidst the volleys of gunfire. Eyewitnesses reported that the protesters had been heard pleading with officers not to use tear gas just moments before the security forces opened fire.
The incident has intensified the debate surrounding the detention of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). His supporters and legal team argue that his continued detention flouts court orders and a United Nations opinion.
The forceful dispersal and the subsequent lockdown of a key part of the nation’s capital have raised serious questions about the balance between national security and the fundamental rights to peaceful assembly and free movement.
As of press time, Nigerian police and army authorities have not issued an official statement on the incident or the widespread disruption it caused.
