Activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has warned the Federal Government that protests demanding the release of detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu, may spiral out of control if urgent steps are not taken.

Sowore issued the warning on Monday amid heightened tensions in Abuja, where demonstrators gathered under the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow banner, calling for the unconditional release of the separatist leader who has been in detention since 2021.

Protest Dispersed by Police

Security operatives moved quickly to disperse protesters who had converged near the Federal Secretariat.

Tear gas and water cannons were deployed as police attempted to maintain order. At least a dozen demonstrators were arrested, and unconfirmed reports suggest that some sustained injuries during the clash.

Among those allegedly detained was lawyer and IPOB counsel Aloy Ejimakor, along with Fineboy Kanu, a relative of the IPOB leader.

Their arrests have drawn widespread condemnation from civil society groups and rights advocates.

Sowore Threatens Mass Action

Speaking shortly after the arrests, Sowore condemned the police action and warned that continued suppression of the protest could result in wider unrest. He called on authorities to release those arrested immediately or face a broader wave of resistance.

“If the police do not release them, I will personally lead a mass protest at the FCT Police Command headquarters,” Sowore stated in a video message circulated on social media.

He further accused the government of double standards, noting that peaceful protests should not be criminalized, especially after a Federal High Court in Abuja declined a police request for an interim order to halt the demonstration.

Mixed Reactions

The protest has drawn mixed responses from various stakeholders. The Nigeria Youth Congress (NYCN) urged restraint, cautioning that any breakdown of law and order could undermine national stability.

Similarly, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) distanced itself from the protest, accusing Sowore of attempting to manipulate students for political gain.

In contrast, some prominent figures have expressed solidarity with the demonstrators. Former Senate President Adolphus Wabara issued a statement supporting Sowore’s efforts and calling on the Federal Government to comply with previous court orders regarding Kanu’s case.

Court to Hear Motion

The police’s application for a formal order to prohibit the protest is expected to be heard this week. Legal observers say the court’s decision may determine the immediate future of the movement and influence public perception of the government’s commitment to justice.

Also Read: Police Explain Use of Tear Gas on #FreeNnamdiKanu Protesters in Abuja

Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of IPOB, remains in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), facing charges that include terrorism and treasonable felony. His continued detention has been a source of growing tension in the South-East and among diaspora communities.

Call for Dialogue

Amid the mounting pressure, rights groups and political commentators have urged the government to open dialogue channels and pursue peaceful resolutions. They warn that further crackdowns could deepen existing divisions and erode public trust.

As the situation develops, both protesters and security forces appear poised for a prolonged standoff, with the nation watching closely for the next move.