U.S. Embassy Warns Citizens Ahead of ‘Free Nnamdi Kanu Now’ Protest in Abuja

• The U.S. Embassy in Abuja has warned American citizens to steer clear of Eagle Square and other parts of the city ahead of Monday’s planned #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest, citing possible violence and traffic disruptions.

The United States Embassy in Abuja has issued a security advisory to American citizens in Nigeria ahead of a planned protest tagged “Free Nnamdi Kanu Now”, scheduled for Monday, October 20, 2025, in the Federal Capital Territory.

In a statement released on Friday, the Embassy cautioned Americans to avoid Eagle Square, the Central Business District, and other areas likely to witness demonstrations. It also advised citizens to minimize movement across Abuja on the protest day, keep children at home, and instruct domestic staff commuting from outside the city to stay away.

“There may be roadblocks, traffic congestion, and possible confrontations between police and protesters that could turn violent around Eagle Square and the Central Business District,” the Embassy warned.

The advisory emphasized the importance of personal safety measures, urging U.S. citizens to:

• Avoid protest areas and large gatherings.
• Exercise caution if unexpectedly near demonstrations.
• Monitor local media for updates.
• Stay aware of surroundings and maintain a low profile.

Additionally, the Embassy advised citizens to review security plans, keep phones charged, carry valid identification, and familiarize themselves with emergency exits in public buildings.

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Despite the alert, the Consular Sections of Embassy Abuja and the Consulate General Lagos will remain open for official duties. Citizens are encouraged to monitor updates on the Embassy’s official website.

Background:
Earlier this month, human rights activist and Sahara Reporters publisher, Omoyele Sowore, announced plans to lead the protest, calling on Nigerians to join the movement demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Using the hashtag #FreeNnamdiKanuNow, Sowore has been mobilizing supporters across Abuja. The protest seeks to pressure the Federal Government to release Kanu, who has been in detention since June 2021 following his controversial rendition from Kenya and subsequent terrorism-related charges before the Federal High Court, Abuja.

In a related development, the U.S. Embassy had, in June 2025, issued a similar warning urging American citizens to avoid military bases and government facilities in Abuja due to global security concerns.