The Nigeria Police Force Headquarters has explained why its operatives fired tear gas during the #FreeNnamdiKanu protest held in Abuja on October 20, 2025. According to police spokesperson CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the use of tear gas was a necessary measure to disperse protesters who attempted to breach court-ordered restricted zones, including sensitive government areas such as Aso Rock, the National Assembly, and other key Federal Capital Territory landmarks.
The protesters, led by activist Omoyele Sowore, demanded the release of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu, currently detained on terrorism-related charges. Despite repeated warnings and a Federal High Court order restricting the protest to certain areas, some demonstrators sought to advance into prohibited zones, forcing security operatives to act to preserve law and order.
The police emphasized that no live ammunition was used and stressed the importance of maintaining peace and protecting critical national infrastructure. They urged protesters to exercise their right to peaceful assembly within lawful boundaries, underscoring that excessive force was avoided despite provocations.
This incident highlights the challenging balance security agencies face in allowing civic freedoms while safeguarding national security amid a highly tense political climate surrounding Nnamdi Kanu’s detention.
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