The United States Embassy in Abuja has warned its citizens residing in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja to steer clear of protest areas and limit their movement on Monday.
The Embassy gave the warning Friday in anticipation of a planned protest fixed for Monday in the FCT.
The Embassy warned that the protest could lead to disruptions and potential violence.
“The US Embassy in Abuja informs US citizens that the Free Nnamdi Kanu Now protest has called for peaceful demonstrations on Monday, October 20th, 2025, in Abuja.
“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 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.
With safety in mind, the Embassy recommended that children stay home from school and that domestic staff who commute from outside Abuja not report to work on that day.
“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 added.
“Avoid areas where protests are taking place. Avoid crowds. Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests,” the advisory continued.
The Embassy also reminded US citizens to monitor local news, keep a low profile, and be alert in public places such as shopping centres, movie theatres, and places of worship.
“Review your personal security plans and keep your cell phone charged in case of emergency,” the message advised.
The protest, organised by activist and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, Omoyele Sowore, under the banner #FreeNnamdoKanuNow may pull crowds to Eagle Square and the Central Business District.
According to Sowore, the planned protest would take place on October 20 and be directed toward the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, adding that it is a “historic” and peaceful demonstration aimed at securing the release of the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu.
He said “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.”
Kanu is currently being tried for terrorism at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
He is in the custody since June 2021 following his controversial extradition from Kenya.
