A joint team of security operatives on Monday dispersed protesters led by activist and Sahara Reporters publisher, Omoyele Sowore, in Abuja. The demonstrators had gathered in the Maitama district to demand the release of the detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu.

The protesters, numbering several dozen, converged near the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) headquarters, chanting solidarity slogans and carrying placards that read, “Free Nnamdi Kanu Now.” Notable participants included Sowore and human rights lawyer Barrister Aloy Ejimakor.

Eyewitnesses told Patriotic Insights News that the group repeatedly cautioned security personnel against the use of force before teargas was deployed. “We are peaceful, don’t shoot, don’t teargas us,” a demonstrator reportedly warned moments before chaos erupted. Gunfire and teargas forced protesters and bystanders to scatter in different directions.

In addition to the protest site, workers and passersby near the Court of Appeal were also caught in the teargas, prompting disruption in the vicinity. The deployment of soldiers at key locations, including roadblocks, has caused heavy traffic in parts of Abuja, particularly affecting Karu, Nyanya, Aya, Dutse Alhaji, and surrounding areas. Motorists around the AYA Bridge were trapped as access roads to the Court of Appeal, Ministry of Finance, and Ministry of Women’s Affairs were blocked. Commuters have been rerouting through roads connecting the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) headquarters and Nicon Luxury Hotel.

Authorities confirmed that as of filing this report, routes in Wuse, Maitama, and Mabushi remained accessible to road users.

The protest comes amid heightened tensions over Kanu’s detention, with security agencies maintaining a firm stance against public demonstrations perceived to threaten law and order.