Activist Omoyele Sowore has reaffirmed that the planned protest demanding the release of detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu, will proceed as scheduled on Monday in Abuja, despite a restraining court order and police warnings.
Sowore explained that the demonstration, described as a peaceful action, has drawn global attention with the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) serving as the main hub.
Addressing journalists on Sunday in Abuja, Sowore stated that the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu by the Department of State Services (DSS) violates the rule of law and disregards existing court rulings.
“We are here to let Nigerians and the world know that this action is going on as planned across the world. The centre of gravity will be Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, where Mr Nnamdi Kanu is currently detained by the DSS,” Sowore said.
Police Caution Protesters
Earlier, the Nigeria Police Force had warned agitators against staging protests around Aso Rock, the nation’s seat of power. Police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin said the warning followed an order by the Federal High Court in Abuja, which barred demonstrations within the Aso Rock vicinity.
However, Sowore dismissed the injunction, claiming that it had expired and was no longer enforceable.
“The law is clear. Mr Kanu’s detention is unlawful and unconstitutional. The Court of Appeal cleared him in 2022, yet he remains in custody. This is unacceptable in any democracy,” Sowore declared.
Sowore criticised the federal government for disobeying the 2022 Court of Appeal judgment that discharged and acquitted Kanu. He described the continued incarceration as an affront to judicial authority and a violation of human rights.
According to him, although the Supreme Court later reviewed aspects of the case, it did not overturn the appellate court’s verdict declaring Kanu’s rendition unlawful and his bail conditions unviolated.
“No one should be tried for an offence for which they have already been discharged and acquitted. That’s double jeopardy, and it’s prohibited under the law,” Sowore added.
Obsolete Law and Wider Implications
He also argued that the Terrorism Prevention Act of 2013, under which Kanu is being prosecuted, is obsolete and cannot be lawfully applied.
“You cannot try anyone under a law that no longer exists. That law is dead and buried,” he insisted.
Sowore emphasised that the planned protest extends beyond Kanu’s case, symbolising the larger struggle for justice, dignity, and freedom for all Nigerians.
“This movement is not just about Nnamdi Kanu; it’s about every Nigerian’s right to justice, dignity, and freedom. When the state violates one citizen’s rights, it threatens everyone’s liberty,” he said.
He maintained that the protest would be peaceful and within the law, urging authorities to respect judicial decisions and the principles of democracy.
“Our demand is clear: obey the law, enforce the judgment, and release Nnamdi Kanu. We will march peacefully, powerfully, and lawfully. At the end of this protest, we hope that common sense and justice will prevail,” Sowore concluded.
According to a 9am News report, the Abuja demonstration has already attracted attention from local and international rights groups monitoring the situation closely.
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