The United States Embassy in Abuja has issued a security advisory to American citizens in Nigeria, warning of a planned protest scheduled for Monday in the Federal Capital Territory.
The protest, organized under the banner FreeNnamdiKanuNow, is expected to attract large crowds to Eagle Square and the Central Business District.
The planned protest was announced by prominent activist and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, Omoyele Sowore, on his X account on October 9.
Sowore stated that the protest would take place on October 20 and be directed toward the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, describing it as a “historic” and peaceful demonstration aimed at securing the release of the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu. #FreeNnamdiKanuNow
The activist stated, “A date has been set for the historic protest march to the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja to demand the release of Nnamdi Kanu.
The protest is scheduled to take place on October 20 at 7 am.” Kanu, who is currently facing terrorism charges at the Federal High Court in Abuja, has been in custody since June 2021 following his extradition from Kenya.
In a statement published on its website on Friday, the Embassy cautioned that the protest could lead to disruptions and potential violence. #FreeNnamdiKanuNow
The US Embassy in Abuja advises US citizens that the Free Nnamdi Kanu Now protest has scheduled peaceful demonstrations on Monday, October 20th, 2025, in Abuja,
and cautions them to avoid protest areas and limit movement across the city.
A security alert has been issued by the U.S. Embassy, warning of potential roadblocks, traffic congestion, and confrontations between police and protestors around Eagle Square and the Central Business District.
The Embassy advises all U.S. citizens to avoid this area and severely limit movement throughout the city on Monday, October 20th.
The Embassy also recommends that children stay home from school and domestic staff who commute from outside Abuja not report to work on that day.
Furthermore, the Embassy suggests that children in Abuja stay home from school and domestic staff who travel from outside Abuja stay home as well. Americans in Nigeria are urged to take heightened security precautions.
To ensure safety, it is advisable to avoid areas where protests are taking place and to steer clear of crowded areas. If you unexpectedly find yourself in the vicinity of a large gathering or protest, exercise caution.
The Embassy also reminded US citizens to stay up-to-date with local news, maintain a low profile, and be vigilant when in public places such as shopping centers, movie theaters, and places of worship.
Additionally, the message advised individuals to review their personal security plans and keep their cell phones charged in case of an emergency.
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