Court Blocks Police Attempt to Halt ‘Free Nnamdi Kanu Now’ Protest

Justice Umar refuses ex parte motion; Sowore hails ruling as triumph for civil rights

The Federal High Court in Abuja has refused an application by the Nigeria Police Force to stop the planned “Free Nnamdi Kanu Now” protest slated for Monday, October 20, 2025, effectively clearing the way for the demonstration to proceed.

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, had through police counsel, filed an ex parte motion seeking an immediate order to restrain activist and protest convener, Omoyele Sowore, from going ahead with the protest scheduled to take place near the Aso Rock Villa.

However, Justice Umar declined to grant the request, ruling that the matter could not be determined without hearing from the other party. The judge ordered that Sowore be formally served notice of the application and adjourned the case to Tuesday, October 21, 2025, for proper hearing.

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Reacting shortly after the ruling, Sowore described the court’s decision as a victory for democracy and freedom of expression. In a post shared via his official X handle, the activist stated:

“The IG of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, dispatched police lawyers to sue me in an effort to halt the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest scheduled for Aso Rock Villa on Monday. However, Justice Umar refused to grant the ex parte motion, instead instructing him to serve me notice and adjourning the case until Tuesday for a proper hearing.”

The #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest, according to organisers, aims to highlight the continued detention and trial delays of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Legal analysts say the adjournment means there is no existing court order restraining the demonstration, leaving open the possibility of a tense standoff between protesters and security forces near the Presidential Villa.

The next hearing, scheduled for Tuesday, is expected to determine the future legality and scope of the protest action.