The U.S. Embassy in Abuja issued a Security Alert to its citizens regarding a planned demonstration organized under the banner #FreeNnamdiKanuNow in the Federal Capital Territory.
The Embassy’s warning is standard protocol to ensure the safety of its citizens by advising them to avoid areas where crowds and potential unrest may occur.1
Details of the Security Alert
- Event: #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest, calling for the release of the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.2
- Date of Protest: Monday, October 20, 2025.3
- Location: The protest is expected to draw crowds to Eagle Square and the Central Business District in Abuja.4
- Potential Risk: The Embassy warned that while the organizers called for peaceful demonstrations, the event may lead to roadblocks, traffic congestion, and confrontations between police and protestors that could turn violent.5
- Embassy Recommendations:
- U.S. citizens should avoid the area and severely limit all movement throughout the city on October 20.6
- The Embassy recommended that children in Abuja stay home from school and that domestic staff who commute from outside Abuja also stay home.7
- Other general safety measures include avoiding crowds, keeping a low profile, and monitoring local media for updates.8