The Nigeria Police Force has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rule of law and maintaining public order following a subsisting order of the Federal High Court, Abuja Division, which restricts protests in and around key national landmarks within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The order, delivered on October 17, 2025, by Justice M.G. Umar in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2202/2025, Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Omoyele Sowore & 4 others, restrains the respondents and their associates from staging demonstrations around Aso Rock Villa, the National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, the Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way.
In a statement, the Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, said the Police, in compliance with the court’s directive and its constitutional duty to maintain law and order, has urged all groups, whether supporting or opposing the ongoing agitation for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, to strictly adhere to the provisions of the order.
“The Nigeria Police Force recognises and respects citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and expression,” Hundeyin said. “However, such rights must be exercised responsibly and within the limits of the law, particularly where public safety, national security, and the rights of others are at stake.”
He explained that the court’s intervention serves as a safeguard for constitutional freedoms rather than a suppression of them, noting that the Police will ensure the free flow of traffic, protection of lives and property, and security of all law-abiding citizens.
Hundeyin warned that anyone who uses protests as a cover to incite violence, carry weapons, or engage in acts of vandalism, kidnapping, or terrorism will be “dealt with decisively.”
He added that the Police would rely on digital evidence to prosecute those who incite violence through social media or other online platforms.The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun has directed the FCT Commissioner of Police and relevant operational units to ensure strict enforcement of the court order, with visible and strategic deployments across sensitive locations in Abuja.
All organisers and participants have been advised to avoid restricted areas, refrain from provocative conduct, and channel grievances through lawful means.
Hundeyin assured Nigerians that adequate security measures have been put in place to protect lives and property, urging residents to go about their lawful activities without fear.
“Anyone found in breach of the Court’s Order or contempt of the law will be arrested and prosecuted,” he warned.
