The United States Embassy in Abuja has issued a security alert to its citizens ahead of a planned #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest expected to hold on Monday in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The demonstration, organised under the banner #FreeNnamdiKanuNow, is scheduled to take place at Eagle Square and the Central Business District, according to former African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore.
Sowore announced on his X (formerly Twitter) handle on October 9 that the protest would be both historic and peaceful.
Kanu, who is standing trial for terrorism at the Federal High Court in Abuja, has been in detention since June 2021 after his extradition from Kenya.
Sowore also revealed that the demonstration, slated for October 20, 2025, will be directed towards the Aso Rock Presidential Villa.
He said the protest which will be peaceful aimed at securing the release of the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu.
He wrote: “We now have a date for the historic #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest march to the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja. It is October 20 at 7 am.”
In a statement posted on its website on Friday, the Embassy warned that the protest could cause disruptions and possible violence.
It urged U.S. citizens to avoid the protest zones and minimize their movement around Abuja.
“The US Embassy in Abuja informs US citizens that the Free Nnamdi Kanu Now protest has called for peaceful demonstrations on Monday, October 20th, 2025, in Abuja.
“There may be roadblocks, traffic congestion, and confrontations between police and protestors that could turn violent around Eagle Square and the Central Business District.
“The Embassy advises all U.S. citizens to avoid this area and to severely limit all movement throughout the city on Monday, October 20th,” the statement read in part.
For safety reasons, the Embassy further advised that children remain home from school and domestic workers traveling from outside Abuja should not report to work that day.
“The Embassy recommends children in Abuja stay home from school and domestic staff who travel from outside of Abuja to stay home as well,” it added.
Americans living in Nigeria were urged to exercise greater caution and follow all safety measures.
“Avoid areas where protests are taking place. Avoid crowds. Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests,” the advisory continued.
The Embassy also reminded its nationals to follow local media updates, maintain a low profile, and stay vigilant in public places such as malls, cinemas, and religious centers.
“Review your personal security plans and keep your cell phone charged in case of emergency,” the message advised.
