The #FreeNnamdiKanu protest on Monday caused a total lockdown in Umuahia, the capital of Abia State, as shops, schools, banks, and major markets shut down in solidarity with calls for the release of detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
The demonstration, led by human rights activist Omoyele Sowore, also held in Abuja, where security operatives allegedly fired live bullets and tear gas at peaceful protesters.
Total Lockdown in Umuahia
In Umuahia, residents withdrew from normal activities as major roads were deserted, with only a few tricycles and vehicles seen in motion. Economic and commercial operations were completely paralyzed, as markets, petrol stations, motor parks, and business centers remained closed.
Schools across the city—both public and private—also suspended academic activities, with some having notified parents over the weekend not to bring their wards due to the planned protest.
At popular areas such as Isigate Market, Post Office Junction, Abia Tower, and FMC/Bank Road, reporters observed deserted streets and shuttered shops, as security patrol vehicles moved around to monitor the situation.
Clashes Reported in Abuja
Meanwhile, in Abuja, Sowore alleged that security operatives attacked peaceful demonstrators who gathered at the Transcorp Hilton area to demand Kanu’s release.
Speaking in an interview with Channels Television, the activist claimed that police officers, soldiers, and civil defence personnel opened fire on the protesters without provocation.
“We started the protest in front of the Transcorp Hotel, and security operatives came—army, police, civil defence. I told them we were not enemies, but suddenly they began shooting tear gas and even live bullets. Luckily, no one was hit,” Sowore said.
He added that several people were arrested during the incident, including Aloy Ejimakor, Nnamdi Kanu’s lawyer, and Kanu’s younger brother, both of whom were allegedly beaten before being taken to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command.
“It was an unprovoked attack from the police force,” Sowore alleged.
Background
Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed IPOB group, has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his re-arrest in 2021, facing charges related to terrorism and incitement. The #FreeNnamdiKanu campaign has continued to attract public attention and periodic protests across southeastern states and Abuja.