Earlier today, a peaceful protest demanding the release of detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, descended into chaos as Nigerian security forces reportedly opened fire on demonstrators in Abuja. The protest, which began near Jabi Plaza, was met with tear gas and live ammunition, leaving several people injured and sparking widespread outrage.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as protesters, traders, and passersby scrambled for safety. The protest had been organized under the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow campaign, with support from activist Omoyele Sowore and student groups including the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS). Despite a court ruling that upheld the right to peaceful assembly, security operatives moved in with force.
Among those arrested were Prince Emmanuel Kanu, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s younger brother, and his lawyer, Barrister Aloy Ejimakor. Their detention has drawn condemnation from human rights advocates, who accuse the government of escalating its crackdown on dissent and violating constitutional protections.
“The police started shooting tear gas everywhere, and people didn’t even know where to run,” said Ngozi, a trader caught in the chaos. “Customers and protesters were all mixed together. It was terrifying.”
This violent response has renewed criticism of the Nigerian government’s handling of political opposition and ethnic self-determination movements. Mazi Nnamdi Kanu has remained in custody since 2021, despite multiple court orders for his release—a situation many view as emblematic of authoritarian overreach and judicial defiance.
The crackdown today is being seen as part of a broader pattern of repression, with calls growing louder for international scrutiny and accountability. Protesters have vowed to continue their campaign until justice is served and Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is released.
“This is not just about one man. It’s about the soul of our democracy,” said a protester near Maitama earlier today.