Omoyele Sowore Leads Call for Nnamdi Kanu’s Release: A March for Justice in Abuja
By Suman Kumari | October 2025
In a bold stand for justice and civil rights, Nigerian activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has called for a peaceful protest in Abuja on October 20, 2025, demanding the unconditional release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The planned demonstration, titled #FreeNnamdiKanuNow, will start at 7:00 AM from Unity Fountain and move toward the Aso Rock Presidential Villa—the symbolic heart of Nigeria’s power.
🔹 Why the Protest Matters
Sowore’s announcement comes amid growing frustration over the federal government’s continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu, despite multiple court rulings ordering his release.
“This is not just about Nnamdi Kanu,” Sowore said. “It’s about defending our judiciary, our democracy, and every Nigerian’s right to freedom and justice.”
Many Nigerians view Kanu’s prolonged detention as a litmus test for the government’s commitment to the rule of law and human rights.
🔹 Voices of Support and Solidarity
The movement has already drawn backing from influential figures across Nigeria:
- Ralph Uwazurike, founder of MASSOB, has pledged to join the peaceful march.
- Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, Kanu’s lawyer, confirmed participation by Kanu’s family and supporters.
- Atiku Abubakar, Nigeria’s former Vice President, reportedly supported the protest, calling it “a test of Nigeria’s moral conscience.”
Sowore also challenged regional leaders like Chukwuma Soludo (Anambra), Alex Otti (Abia), Peter Obi, and Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe to take visible stands for justice by joining the march.
🔹 Beyond One Man: A Fight for the Rule of Law
While the immediate demand is for Kanu’s release, Sowore’s proposal reflects a broader appeal for accountability, fairness, and respect for judicial authority.
The protest aims to remind authorities that democracy cannot thrive without justice, and that peaceful civic action is a constitutional right, not a crime.
International observers and human rights organizations are expected to monitor the October 20 march closely to assess Nigeria’s tolerance for peaceful dissent.
🔹 Security and Expectations
Though some Nigerians express concerns about security restrictions or government crackdowns, Sowore insists the demonstration will remain lawful, peaceful, and nonviolent.
He emphasized that the purpose is not confrontation, but conscience—a call for justice heard across the nation.
🔹 A Call for Peaceful Participation
Sowore’s campaign invites all Nigerians—regardless of tribe or political leaning—to participate peacefully.
The message remains clear:
Free Nnamdi Kanu. Respect the courts. Strengthen democracy.
Whether or not one agrees with Kanu’s ideology, his detention without adherence to court rulings undermines the very foundation of justice and equality.
🕊️ Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Nigeria
The October 20 Abuja march could become one of the defining moments in Nigeria’s democratic history.
For Sowore, it’s not just a protest—it’s a movement for national integrity.
As Nigerians await the government’s response, the world is watching to see if justice will triumph over politics, and if freedom will outweigh fear.
Comments