The United States Embassy in Abuja has issued a security alert to its citizens ahead of a planned #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest scheduled to take place on Monday, October 20, 2025, in the Federal Capital Territory.
The embassy’s warning comes as activists prepare for what has been described as a “historic” march towards Aso Rock Villa.
According to the embassy, the demonstration could cause traffic gridlock, roadblocks, and possible confrontations between protesters and security forces, particularly around Eagle Square and the Central Business District.
“There may be roadblocks, traffic congestion, and confrontations between police and protestors that could turn violent around Eagle Square and the Central Business District,” the advisory stated.
The protest was announced by Omoyele Sowore, activist and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, via his X (formerly Twitter) account on October 9.
Sowore described the march as a peaceful demonstration aimed at securing the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
“We now have a date for the historic #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest march to the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja. It is October 20 at 7 am,” Sowore wrote, calling for mass participation.
Kanu has been in custody since June 2021 following his controversial extradition from Kenya and continues to face terrorism-related charges at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The embassy advised American citizens in Nigeria to steer clear of protest areas and limit all non-essential movement throughout the city on Monday.
“The Embassy advises all U.S. citizens to avoid this area and to severely limit all movement throughout the city on Monday, October 20th,” the statement read in part.
To minimize exposure, the embassy further recommended that children stay home from school and that domestic staff who commute from outside Abuja should not report to work. “The Embassy recommends children in Abuja stay home from school and domestic staff who travel from outside of Abuja to stay home as well,” it said.
Americans were also urged to adopt heightened security measures and remain vigilant. “Avoid areas where protests are taking place. Avoid crowds.
Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests,” the advisory continued, stressing the importance of maintaining a low profile and monitoring local developments.
The alert concluded with safety tips for emergency preparedness, urging citizens to review personal security plans and ensure their phones are fully charged. “Review your personal security plans and keep your cell phone charged in case of emergency,” it stated.
As tension builds ahead of the demonstration, the embassy’s advisory underscores growing international concern about public safety in Abuja’s political hotspots.