There’s a growing movement in Nigeria demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), and prominent activist Omoyele Sowore has taken a leading role in organising the protests.
What Is #FreeNnamdiKanuNow?
The #FreeNnamdiKanuNow movement is a campaign calling for the immediate release of Nnamdi Kanu, who has been in detention following his arrest in 2017 and subsequent conviction. Supporters argue that Kanu’s continued detention is unjust and politically motivated.
Sowore’s Role and Mobilisation
They deployed @HQNigeriaArmy soldiers in Aba but we didn’t back down, telling Tinubu and Justice Omotosho who “jailed” Mazi Nnamdi Kanu to show us the law. Aba was blast! #FreeNnamdiKanuNow pic.twitter.com/3RaID7kP6T
— Omoyele Sowore (@sowore) March 12, 2026
Human rights activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore, known for his activism in Nigeria, publicly called on Nigerians to join peaceful protests to press for Kanu’s release. Sowore used his platform to urge citizens to mobilise nationwide despite legal pushback from authorities.
He has also engaged with security officials, asking police to respect the rights of peaceful protesters and ensure their safety, highlighting the constitutional right to peaceful assembly.
Major Protests and Government Response
Protests led by Sowore took place in Abuja, drawing significant attention. On one occasion, security operatives dispersed demonstrators as they marched in the Maitama area, and heavy security presence was reported in parts of the city.
Ahead of a planned October 20 march to the Aso Rock Villa to demand Kanu’s release, a Federal High Court issued an interim order restraining Sowore and others from protesting at certain sensitive government locations, including the seat of Nigeria’s presidency.
Legal Pushback and Court Actions
Following the protests, the police filed a suit against Sowore and other organisers. The court rescheduled hearings several times due to disruptions caused by the demonstrations.
Despite the legal attempts to restrict or regulate the protests, Sowore and civil society groups have continued their calls for peaceful action and the release of Kanu.
Public Debate and National Reaction
The #FreeNnamdiKanuNow campaign has sparked varied reactions across Nigeria. While supporters see it as a legitimate fight for justice, some organisations for example, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) distanced themselves from the protests, warning youths against being used by politicians.
Security warnings were also issued, including alerts advising citizens to avoid protest areas due to possible unrest.
What This Means for Nigeria
The involvement of prominent activists like Sowore has given the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow movement broader visibility, turning it into one of the most closely watched civil protests in recent Nigerian history. The campaign highlights enduring tensions over political detention, civil liberties, and the right to peaceful protest.
As the legal battles and public demonstrations continue, Nigerians remain divided over the future of this movement and its impact on national stability.
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