The United States Embassy in Abuja has warned American citizens to stay away from the city centre on Monday, October 20, due to a planned protest calling for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
In a security alert released on Friday, the Embassy said the protest, organised under the banner #FreeNnamdiKanuNow, could lead to roadblocks, traffic disruptions, and possible clashes between protesters and security forces.
“The US Embassy in Abuja informs US citizens that the Free Nnamdi Kanu Now protest has called for peaceful demonstrations on Monday, October 20th, 2025, in Abuja. There may be roadblocks, traffic congestion, and confrontations between police and protestors that could turn violent around Eagle Square and the Central Business District,” the statement said.
The Embassy advised Americans in Nigeria to avoid protest areas and limit movement across the city during the demonstration. It also urged parents to keep their children at home and advised that domestic staff who travel from outside Abuja should not report to work on that day.
“The Embassy recommends children in Abuja stay home from school and domestic staff who travel from outside of Abuja to stay home as well,” it added.
The protest was announced by activist and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, who said it would be a “historic and peaceful” march to the Aso Rock Presidential Villa.
“We now have a date for the historic #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest march to the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja. It is October 20 at 7 am,” Sowore wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
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Kanu has been in detention since June 2021, after being extradited from Kenya, and is currently facing terrorism charges at the Federal High Court in Abuja. His continued detention has sparked repeated calls for his release from supporters and human rights groups.
In its warning, the Embassy urged US citizens to remain alert and take safety precautions.
“Avoid areas where protests are taking place. Avoid crowds. Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests,” it said.
The Embassy also advised Americans to monitor local news, keep a low profile, and review personal security plans.
“Keep your cell phone charged in case of emergency,” the statement added.
The advisory comes as security agencies in Abuja prepare for the planned protest, which is expected to draw large crowds to Eagle Square and the Central Business District.