Police operatives on Monday dispersed demonstrators demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), during protests in the Utako area of Abuja.
The protesters — comprising civil rights activists and members of pro-democracy groups under the #ReleaseNnamdiKanuNow campaign — had earlier been dispersed at Maitama after police fired several rounds of tear gas to break up their gathering near the Transcorp Hilton.
After regrouping in Utako to continue their march, security forces again moved in and used tear gas canisters to disperse the crowd.
The protesters were calling on the Federal Government to comply with the 2022 Court of Appeal judgment that discharged and acquitted Kanu of all charges.
Eyewitnesses said the initial police action in Maitama caused panic, as commuters, traders, and motorists fled for safety.
Security presence across the Federal Capital Territory has since been reinforced, with soldiers, police, and operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) stationed at key locations such as Eagle Square, the Federal Secretariat, and the Three Arms Zone.
At the Berger roundabout, a heavy military presence was also observed, including a gun truck mounted at the scene.
