By Our Reporter, Abuja
The Nigeria Police Force has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rule of law and maintaining public order in line with constitutional provisions, following a subsisting order of the Federal High Court, Abuja Division.
The order, issued on 17th October 2025 by Honourable 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 any other persons or groups acting under their instruction from staging protests within and around Aso Rock Villa, the National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, the Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way.
In compliance with the court’s directive, the Police have called on all groups — whether in support of or opposed to the ongoing agitation for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu — to strictly adhere to the terms of the court order, pending further judicial proceedings.
The Force noted that while it recognises the constitutional rights of citizens to peaceful assembly and expression, such rights must be exercised within the limits of the law, especially where national security, public safety, and the rights of other citizens are concerned.
“The Court’s intervention is a safeguard, not a suppression, of constitutional freedoms,” the statement read.
Consequently, all intending protesters and counter-protest groups have been advised to avoid restricted areas and desist from any actions capable of provoking confrontation or disturbing public peace. The Force assured that measures have been taken to ensure the free flow of traffic, protection of lives and property, and the security of all law-abiding citizens.
The statement warned that any person or group who uses protests as a cover to incite violence, carry weapons, vandalise property, kidnap, or engage in acts likely to cause injury or loss of life will be dealt with decisively. Offenders will face arrest, investigation, and prosecution under applicable criminal laws — including those relating to public order, violent conduct, and terrorism where relevant.
It further cautioned individuals using social media to incite unrest that digital evidence will be deployed in ongoing and future investigations.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has directed the FCT Commissioner of Police and other relevant operational commands to enforce the court’s order strictly, maintain strategic deployments across vulnerable locations, and ensure the safety of residents and lawful activities within the Federal Capital Territory.
Organisers and participants have been specifically urged to:
Avoid the restricted areas listed in the court order;
Refrain from carrying weapons or engaging in provocative conduct; and
Channel their grievances through the courts and other lawful means.
The Force assured law-abiding Nigerians that adequate security arrangements have been put in place to protect lives and property, urging non-participants to go about their lawful businesses without fear.
“Anyone found breaching the court’s order or acting in contempt of the law will be arrested and prosecuted,” the statement concluded.
CSP BENJAMIN HUNDEYIN, anipr, mipra
Force Public Relations Officer
Force Headquarters, Abuja
