United States Embassy has issued a security alert to Americans in anticipation of a planned protest scheduled for Monday in the Federal Capital Territory.
The protest, organised under the banner of #FreeNnamdiKanuNow, is expected to draw crowds to Eagle Square and the Central Business District.
The planned protest was announced by activist and former presidential candidate of African Action Congress, ADC, Omoyele Sowore, on his X (formerly Twitter) account on October 9.
Sowore stated that the protest would take place on October 20 and directed toward 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, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu.
The activist 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.”
Kanu, who is currently facing terrorism charges at the Federal High Court in Abuja, has been in custody since June 2021, following his controversial extradition from Kenya.
In a statement published on its website yesterday, the embassy cautioned that the protest could lead to disruptions and potential violence.
It advised US citizens to steer clear of the protest areas and limit their movement across the city.
“The US Embassy in Abuja informs US citizens that the free Nnamdi Kanu now protest has called for peaceful demonstrations on Monday, October 20 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 severely limit all movement throughout the city on Monday, October 20,” the statement reads in part.
With safety in mind, the Embassy recommended that children stay home from school and that domestic staff who commute from outside Abuja not report to work on that day.
Americans in Nigeria are being urged to take heightened security precautions.
“Avoid areas where protests are taking place. Avoid crowds. Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests,” the advisory continued.
It also reminded US citizens to monitor local news, keep a low profile and be alert in public places such as shopping centres, movie theatres and places of worship.
“Review your personal security plans and keep your cell phone charged in case of emergency,” the message advised.
