Heavy security lockdown in Abuja over planned #FreeNnamdiKanu Protest
Security operatives on Monday morning mounted heavy barricades and checkpoints across major entry routes into Abuja, causing massive traffic gridlock and leaving thousands of commuters and civil servants stranded for hours.
The development followed reports of a planned protest demanding the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.
The demonstration was expected to be led by the convener of the #RevolutionNow movement and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore.
READ ALSO: Supreme Court upholds FG’s appeal, Nnamdi Kanu to stand trial
As early as 4:00 a.m., soldiers blocked the Keffi–Abuja Expressway at Karu Bridge near the Sani Abacha Barracks, conducting stop-and-search operations on vehicles entering the city. The exercise caused long queues and delays for commuters from Nyanya, Karu, Mararaba, Masaka, and surrounding areas.
A similar situation was reported along the Dutse–Bwari–City Centre axis, while motorists approaching the city via the Airport Road were diverted at the National Mosque, with armed operatives blocking access to the Central Area.
An advisory circulated among workers in Abuja early Monday morning read:
“Good morning, dear colleagues, please, if you are coming from Airport Road to the Central Area, follow Area 1. Security blocked from National Mosque.”
Several key roads within the city centre—including those leading to Eagle Square, the Federal Secretariat, and the National Assembly—were also heavily guarded by soldiers and police officers.
READ ALSO: Finally, FG reveals glaring terrorism evidences against IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu
According to sources, the large-scale deployment was a proactive security measure aimed at maintaining law and order and preventing any possible breakdown of peace during the planned protest.
Nnamdi Kanu has remained in detention since his re-arrest and extradition to Nigeria in June 2021. His supporters have consistently called for his release, citing court rulings and concerns over his health.
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