President Bola Tinubu’s administration has filed a lawsuit at the Federal High Court in Abuja seeking to stop human rights activist Omoyele Sowore and three others from leading the planned October 20, 2025, #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest.
The Federal Government, in the suit marked FHC/ABJ/2202/2025, asked the court to restrain Sowore and his co-organizers from participating in or promoting the nationwide protest calling for the unconditional release of detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
The ex parte motion, filed by government lawyer Wisdom Madaki, was presented before Justice M.G. Umar of Court 5. However, the judge declined to grant an immediate injunction, ordering instead that Sowore be served with the court documents. The matter has been adjourned to October 21, a day after the proposed protest.
Sowore, who has consistently campaigned for Kanu’s release, announced that the protest would begin at 7 a.m. at Aso Rock Villa, Abuja, describing it as a “historic demonstration for justice and freedom.” The campaign, tagged #FreeNnamdiKanuNow, has gained significant traction online and across major Nigerian cities.
In recent weeks, Sowore has intensified consultations with political figures and civil society leaders. He met with former President Goodluck Jonathan, who reportedly expressed concern over Kanu’s prolonged detention and promised to engage President Tinubu on possible resolution.
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Reacting to the development, Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga accused Sowore of attempting to “provoke instability under the guise of activism,” insisting that Nnamdi Kanu must face justice over treason charges. He warned that any unlawful gathering would be treated as an act of provocation against the state.
The Federal Government’s decision to seek a court order has stirred strong reactions online, with supporters of Sowore accusing the administration of suppressing dissent and free speech. As tensions rise ahead of October 20, the stage appears set for a major legal and political confrontation over Nigeria’s handling of dissent and human rights.
