US warns citizens amid tensions over planned protest for Nnamdi Kanu’s release in Abuja

A security alert has been issued by the United States Embassy in Abuja to the citizens of America amid tensions rocking the Federal Capital Territory over protest for the release of Nnamdi Kanu slated for Monday, October 20 by Omoleye Sowore.

Tagged #FreeNnamdiKanuNow, Sowore has vowed to take the protest to the villa, even as Sowore visited markets and crowded places to sensitise and mobilized people to join the protest in the last few days.

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In a post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) Sowore wrote that the protest will draw crowds to the Eagle Square and the Central Business District before proceeding to the Villa.

He however said, the protest will be peaceful, but historic as it will be directed toward the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, aimed at demanding the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.

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Meanwhile the United States has cautioned its citizens which was published on its website on Friday, stating that the planned protest could result in “roadblocks, traffic congestion, and confrontations between police and protestors that could turn violent.

It advised Americans in Abuja to “avoid this area and severely limit all movement throughout the city on Monday, October 20.”

The Embassy further advised that “childrens in Abuja stay home from school” and that “domestic staff who travel from outside of Abuja should stay home as well.”

It urged U.S. citizens to “avoid areas where protests are taking place, avoid crowds, and exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.”

Highlighting the possibility of disruptions, the advisory added that Americans should “review personal security plans and keep cell phones charged in case of emergency.”

The protest comes amid renewed agitation for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, who has been in custody since June 2021, following his controversial extradition from Kenya. Kanu is currently facing terrorism charges at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

The Embassy also reminded U.S. citizens to monitor local news, remain alert in public spaces such as shopping malls, cinemas, and places of worship, and maintain a low profile during the protest period.

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