By Our Correspondent
Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, has announced an extension of the ongoing nationwide protest demanding the immediate release of detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. The renewed phase of the protest is now scheduled to continue until October 25, 2025, under a newly declared initiative tagged Operation Occupy Abuja.
The group, in a statement issued late Monday, expressed its dissatisfaction with the federal government for continuing to detain Kanu despite multiple court orders mandating his release. The protest, which began on October 20 with mass gatherings across Abuja, saw a heavy police presence, the use of tear gas, and multiple arrests.
Ohanaeze said the government’s silence and disregard for the rule of law are the main reasons the protest will continue.
We cannot sit idly while the rights of our people are trampled upon. The courts have spoken, yet the state continues to act with impunity. By extending this protest, we aim to make it clear that justice delayed is justice denied, said Dr. Alex Ogbonnia, the national publicity secretary of Ohanaeze.
The group also said the protest is peaceful and democratic, calling on security agencies to respect the constitutional rights of Nigerians to gather and express themselves freely.
As part of the extended phase, Ohanaeze launched Operation Occupy Abuja, a strategic move to maintain continuous presence in the capital city. The group called on Nigerians from all ethnic groups to join what it described as a lawful and ongoing civil resistance against injustice and marginalization.
Protesters are expected to gather daily at places like Unity Fountain, the Federal High Court, and roads leading to the Presidential Villa.
We are not just asking for Nnamdi Kanu’s release. We are calling for respect for the judiciary and the restoration of human dignity across the country, the statement added.
The presidency has criticized the protest, calling it a coordinated effort to disrupt public peace under the cover of activism. In response, the Nigeria Police Force has deployed special units and surveillance teams across key locations in Abuja and other cities.
On October 20, security officers used tear gas to break up crowds. Several protesters, including members of civil rights groups and IPOB supporters, were reportedly arrested.
Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and local advocacy groups, have urged the Nigerian government to obey court rulings and release Kanu. International observers are also watching the situation closely, especially in view of Nigeria’s commitments to democratic values.
As the protest continues to grow, many are watching to see whether the government will soften its position or continue to resist the pressure.
