The United States Embassy in Abuja has warned its citizens to exercise caution ahead of a planned protest in the Federal Capital Territory on Monday, October 20.
The protest, tagged #FreeNnamdiKanuNow, is expected to take place at Eagle Square and the Central Business District. It is being organised to demand the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who has been in detention since his arrest and extradition from Kenya in 2021.
Activist and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, announced the protest on October 9 via his X (formerly Twitter) account, describing it as a peaceful and “historic” march toward the Aso Rock Presidential Villa.
In an advisory issued on Friday, the US Embassy cautioned that the protest could lead to roadblocks, traffic congestion, and possible confrontations between protesters and security forces. It urged American citizens to avoid the protest areas and limit their movements throughout the city on that day.
“The US Embassy in Abuja informs US citizens that the ‘Free Nnamdi Kanu Now’ protest has called for peaceful demonstrations on Monday, October 20, 2025,” the statement read. “There may be roadblocks, traffic congestion, and confrontations between police and protesters that could turn violent around Eagle Square and the Central Business District.”
The Embassy further advised Americans to remain indoors, keep a low profile, and avoid large gatherings or areas where demonstrations are taking place. It also suggested that children stay home from school and domestic staff who commute from outside Abuja refrain from traveling to work.
“Avoid areas where protests are taking place. Avoid crowds. Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests,” the advisory added.
The Embassy encouraged US citizens to monitor local media for updates, review personal security plans, and ensure their phones remain charged in case of emergencies.
Kanu is currently standing trial on terrorism-related charges before the Federal High Court in Abuja. His continued detention has drawn criticism from rights activists and groups calling for his release.