The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has declared all custodial centres across the country as red zones ahead of the planned #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest scheduled for October 20 in Abuja.

The move comes as security agencies brace for potential unrest following activist Omoyele Sowore’s announcement of a protest march to the Presidential Villa, demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Kanu has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his re-arrest in 2021.

In a statement issued in Abuja, NCoS spokesperson Abubakar Umar warned that all correctional facilities nationwide are now restricted areas, urging the public to stay clear of the premises. The Nigeria Police Force also cautioned protest organisers to respect a court order prohibiting demonstrations near sensitive government locations, warning that any act of violence or incitement would be “dealt with decisively.”

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