Police Urge Protesters to Respect Court Order, Vow Tough Action Against Violators
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has cautioned groups planning demonstrations in Abuja to strictly comply with a subsisting Federal High Court order restraining protests around key government institutions, warning that any violation will attract decisive punitive measures.
The court order, issued on October 17, 2025, by Justice M.G. Umar of the Federal High Court, Abuja Division, in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2202/2025 — Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Omoyele Sowore & 4 others, prohibits protests or gatherings within and around the Aso Rock Villa, National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way.
In a statement on Saturday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi (Correction: CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, if he’s still FPRO as in statement), the Police said the directive remains binding and enforceable pending further judicial proceedings.
The Force reiterated its constitutional duty to maintain law and order, emphasizing that while citizens have the right to peaceful assembly, such rights must be exercised within the limits of the law to ensure public safety, national security, and protection of other citizens’ rights.
“The Court’s intervention is a safeguard, not a suppression, of constitutional freedoms,” the statement noted.
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The Police warned that any group or individual — whether in support of or opposed to the ongoing agitation for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu — must avoid restricted areas and refrain from actions capable of provoking confrontation or disrupting public order.
The statement further cautioned that anyone who hijacks protests to perpetrate violence, carry weapons, vandalize property, or incite unrest would face arrest and prosecution under applicable criminal laws, including those on public order, violent conduct, and terrorism.
“Those who incite others via social media or other platforms should note that digital evidence will be used in investigations and prosecutions,” the statement added.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has directed the FCT Commissioner of Police and other operational commands to ensure strict enforcement of the court’s order, maintain strategic deployments across sensitive areas, and guarantee the safety of residents and lawful activities within the Federal Capital Territory.
Organizers and participants were urged to seek legal redress through the courts rather than taking to the streets, and to refrain from carrying offensive weapons or engaging in provocative behavior.
The Police assured residents that adequate security measures have been put in place to safeguard lives and property, while advising non-participants to go about their lawful businesses without fear.
“Anyone found in breach of the Court’s Order or in contempt of the law will be arrested and prosecuted,” the statement concluded.
By PRNigeria
