Security operatives on Monday fired tear gas canisters at protesters, including human rights activist Omoyele Sowore, who had gathered in Abuja to demand the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.
The demonstration, tagged #ReleaseNnamdiKanuNow, was scheduled to commence from the Transcorp Hilton area and spread to other parts of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). However, it was disrupted as police officers reportedly arrived early at the scene, firing several rounds of tear gas to disperse participants and passersby.
Eyewitnesses said the operatives, who had cordoned off the hotel and adjoining streets, began shooting tear gas canisters even before a large number of protesters gathered.
A correspondent on the ground observed heavy security presence across major parts of the city, with soldiers, police officers, and operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) stationed at strategic points, including the Three Arms Zone, Eagle Square, Federal Secretariat, Unity Fountain, and roads leading to Aso Rock Villa.
The protest follows renewed calls from activists and supporters of the IPOB leader for his unconditional release, following prolonged detention despite several court rulings in his favour.