By Charles Pemu 
ABUJA—The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has issued a stern warning to all intending protesters and counter-groups in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), demanding strict adherence to a Federal High Court order that prohibits demonstrations around key government and security installations.
The police action follows an interim order delivered on Friday, October 17, 2025, by Honourable Justice M.G. Umar of the Federal High Court, Abuja Division, in the suit: Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Omoyele Sowore & 4 others (Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2202/2025).
The ruling specifically restrains the respondents and any group acting on their instruction from staging protests in several sensitive areas, including:
- Aso Rock Villa and its environs
- The National Assembly Complex
- Force Headquarters
- The Court of Appeal
- Eagle Square
- Shehu Shagari Way
The Force Public Relations Officer, in a statement, reiterated that the police remain committed to upholding the rule of law and maintaining public peace. The directive to avoid the restricted areas is binding on all groups—whether in support of or opposed to the ongoing agitation for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu—pending further judicial proceedings.
While acknowledging citizens’ constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and expression, the police stressed that such rights must be exercised responsibly, especially where public safety, national security, and the rights of other citizens are concerned.
“The Court’s intervention is therefore a safeguard, not a suppression, of constitutional freedoms,” the statement read, advising all groups to avoid provoking confrontation or disturbing public order.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has directed the FCT Commissioner of Police and relevant operational commands to ensure the order is strictly enforced. Security operatives have been mandated to maintain visible and strategic deployments across vulnerable locations to ensure the safety of residents and the free flow of traffic.
The NPF issued a clear warning on the consequences of non-compliance, stating that any person or group using protests as a cover to:
- Inciting violence.
- Carrying or using offensive weapons.
- Vandalizing property.
- Kidnapping.
- Engaging in acts likely to cause serious injury or loss of life.
Offenders will be arrested, subjected to full investigation, and prosecuted under relevant criminal laws, including those relating to public order, violent conduct, and terrorism where applicable. The police also warned social media users, noting that digital evidence used to incite violence will be admissible in court.
Protesters are strongly advised to channel their grievances through the courts and other lawful avenues rather than the streets. The Force assured law-abiding Nigerians that adequate security measures are in place, urging non-participants to go about their lawful businesses without fear.