The Nigeria Police Force has warned people planning to protest for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu not to hold any protest near Aso Rock or around its surroundings.
Police spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said in a statement from Abuja that the warning follows an order from the Federal High Court.
- Kane strikes again as Bayern beat Dortmund to stay clear in Bundesliga
- Dangote Refinery Reports 22 Sabotage Attempts
According to him, the court, in a case between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Omoyele Sowore & four others on October 17, stopped any kind of protest near Aso Rock.
“The court order stops the respondents and anyone working with them from holding protests within or around the Aso Rock Villa,” he said.
Hundeyin explained that other restricted areas include the National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, the Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way.
He advised all protesters and counter-protesters to stay away from these places and avoid any actions that could lead to violence or disrupt public peace.
The police said they will ensure free movement of vehicles, protect lives and property, and maintain peace in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Hundeyin warned that anyone or group who uses a protest to cause trouble, carry weapons, destroy property, kidnap people, or commit violence will face serious punishment. Such people will be arrested, investigated, and prosecuted under the law.
He also warned that those who use social media to incite others will be tracked, investigated, and prosecuted using digital evidence.
Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the FCT Commissioner of Police and other commands to enforce the court order strictly and deploy officers to protect residents and public spaces.
Hundeyin advised the organisers and participants to stay away from restricted areas, not to carry weapons, and to behave peacefully.
He encouraged them to present their complaints through the courts or other legal means, not through street protests.
The police assured that enough security arrangements have been made to keep law-abiding citizens safe and urged everyone to go about their normal activities without fear.