FG Files Suit To Stop Sowore, Others From Organising October 20 #FreeNnamdiKanuNow Protest

The Federal Government of Nigeria has allegedly filed a lawsuit seeking to halt the planned #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest led by former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore.

The suit, filed at the Federal High Court, Abuja, seeks to restrain the pro-democracy convener and three others from leading the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest scheduled for October 20, 2025.

In an ex-parte application filed under case number FHC/ABJ/2202/2025 and moved by lawyer Wisdom Madaki on behalf of the government, the Federal Government requested an order to prevent Sowore and three others from participating in, organizing, or promoting the protest, which demands the unconditional release of detained separatist leader Nnamdi Kanu.

However, Justice M.G. Umar of Federal High Court 5 refused to grant the government’s requested ex-parte application.

Instead, the court directed that Sowore be formally put on notice and adjourned the matter to October 21, a day after the scheduled protest.

Kanu is the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Sowore recently launched a campaign demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, rallying politicians and citizens alike, and expanding the movement to grassroots locations like markets.

He recently met with former President Goodluck Jonathan to seek his support. Jonathan acknowledged the urgency of resolving Kanu’s case and promised to discuss it with President Bola Tinubu.

Sowore also reached out to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, among others, urging them to back the protest and support efforts toward Kanu’s release. Atiku also endorsed the campaign.

In recent statements, Sowore emphasised that the campaign would extend beyond political circles into markets and public spaces, aiming to mobilise ordinary Nigerians and raise awareness at the grassroots level.

The Presidency, through spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, recently criticised Sowore’s actions, accusing him of trying to incite disorder and undermine the rule of law. They reiterated that Kanu is facing treason charges and dismissed the protest as anarchistic.