The Nigeria Police Force Headquarters has defended the use of tear gas to disperse protesters in Abuja who were demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The protest, which took place in areas such as Three Arms Zone, Maitama, and Jabi, turned tense when demonstrators attempted to march toward the Three Arms Zone—home to key institutions like the Presidential Villa, National Assembly, and Court of Appeal. Police operatives reportedly fired tear gas canisters to prevent access to the restricted area.
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Amnesty International Nigeria condemned the action, describing it as an attempt to suppress peaceful dissent. The rights group urged authorities to respect citizens’ constitutional right to peaceful protest, as enshrined in national and international human rights laws.
Responding to the criticism, Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said the police acted within the law, citing a court order that restricts protests around sensitive government locations, including the Villa, Force Headquarters, and Eagle Square. He added that the action was necessary to restore free movement after protesters blocked the road.
Nnamdi Kanu has been in DSS custody since June 2021, facing terrorism-related charges before the Federal High Court, Abuja.
