The Nigeria Police Force has cautioned intending protesters planning to stage demonstrations around Aso Rock and its environs to desist from doing so, citing a subsisting court order restricting such gatherings.

Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, issued the warning in a statement on Sunday in Abuja, following plans by activists, including Sahara Reporters publisher Omoyele Sowore, to stage a mass protest in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) today.

According to Hundeyin, the directive follows an order by the Federal High Court, Abuja, in the case of Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Omoyele Sowore & 4 others, which on 17 October restrained any form of protest within and around the Aso Rock Villa and its environs.

“The order restrains the respondents and any other persons or groups acting under their instruction from staging protests within and around Aso Rock Villa and its environs,” the statement read. “Other restricted areas include the National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, the Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way.”

The police warned all intending protesters and counter-protest groups to stay away from these areas and to avoid any acts capable of provoking confrontation or disturbing public order.

Hundeyin stressed that the police would ensure the free flow of traffic, protection of lives and property, and security of all law-abiding citizens. He warned that anyone who uses protests as a cover to incite violence, vandalise property, carry weapons, or engage in acts likely to cause injury or loss of life would face decisive legal action.

“Offenders will be arrested, investigated, and prosecuted under relevant criminal laws, including those relating to public order, violent conduct, and terrorism where applicable,” he added.

He also stated that those who incite others via social media or other platforms would be traced, investigated, and prosecuted using digital evidence.

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed the Commissioner of Police in charge of the FCT and other operational commands to strictly enforce the court order, maintain visible deployments at vulnerable locations, and ensure the safety of residents and lawful activities across the capital.

Meanwhile, Sowore has announced plans to mobilise one million Nigerians for the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest in Abuja.

In a statement on Sunday, the activist confirmed that the demonstration would take place today, beginning at 7:00 a.m. in front of the Transcorp Hilton Hotel.

“We want to put one million people on the streets of Abuja tomorrow for #FreeNnamdiKanuNow! Let’s make it happen,” Sowore declared.

He praised those who had travelled from across the country to join the protest, saying, “Your courage, sacrifice, and solidarity speak volumes. Together, we are writing history. Come ready, come peaceful, come determined.”

Sowore’s call for mass mobilisation comes amid heightened security measures and warnings by the police against violating the court order.

The police urged protesters to channel their grievances through lawful means rather than street demonstrations, assuring the public that adequate arrangements had been made to safeguard lives and property.

Hundeyin advised residents not participating in the protest to go about their lawful activities without fear, warning that anyone found breaching the court’s order would be arrested and prosecuted.