Nigerian Police Defend Use of Tear Gas Against Protesters in Abuja

Abuja, Nigeria — The Nigerian Police Force has defended its use of tear gas to disperse demonstrators demanding the release of separatist leader Nnamdi Kanu, insisting that its actions were necessary to enforce a valid court order restricting protests near key government buildings.

The protests, convened by activist Omoyele Sowore under the #FreeNnamdiKanu banner, saw demonstrators gather in Abuja on Monday before attempting to move toward restricted zones.

Police Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the police action during a television interview, explaining that a Federal High Court order obtained on Friday specifically barred the protest from converging on or marching towards strategic areas. These areas include the Aso Villa (Presidential Complex), the Supreme Court, the National Assembly, and Eagles Square.

“We got a court order specifically about this protest and restricting protests from certain areas… As a law enforcement agency, we are duty-bound to enforce that order,” Hundeyin stated.

The Force spokesman justified the use of force by citing security intelligence that indicated a risk of unrest if the demonstrators reached the banned zones, noting that the police were obligated to protect life and property.

Hundeyin stressed that officers only used “minimal force”—deploying tear gas—after protesters allegedly ignored repeated warnings and attempted to breach the restricted areas. He emphatically denied reports claiming that live ammunition was used, clarifying that the sound of tear gas canisters is often mistaken for live bullets.

The protest organisers, including Sowore, had gathered earlier at the Unity Fountain, chanting songs and carrying placards to demand Kanu’s release, accusing the Federal Government of defying previous court orders for his freedom.

The police have urged activists to confine their demonstrations to zones that do not threaten critical infrastructure, maintaining that the Federal Capital Territory is large enough for their voices to be heard without resorting to potential chaos.