The Presidency has strongly opposed activist Omoyele Sowore’s intention to organize a demonstration at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, protesting the ongoing detention of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Bayo Onanuga, the Presidential Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, expressed his disapproval via a post on his official X account, labeling Sowore as “a disruptive force disguised as a human rights advocate.”
Sowore had previously declared that the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow rally would take place on October 20 at 7 a.m., describing it as a “momentous” event aimed at demanding the release of the IPOB leader.
In response, the spokesperson for President Tinubu cautioned that the planned protest threatens public order, emphasizing that Kanu is currently sowore-claims-against-tinubu-wike/” title=”Rivers APC Urges Nigerians to Reject …'s Allegations Against Tinubu and Wike”>undergoing trial for treason, a legal process that must be respected and allowed to proceed without interference.
“You are merely a troublemaker pretending to champion human rights. You are fully aware that Nnamdi Kanu is on trial for treason, yet you seek to incite chaos by organizing this protest,” Onanuga stated.
“Is this the kind of change you envision for Nigeria-one where the rule of law is discarded and your version of justice becomes lawlessness?”
The presidential aide also criticized former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, accusing him of exploiting the situation by endorsing the planned demonstration.
“It is disappointing that ex-VP Atiku Abubakar, known for his opportunistic tendencies, has lent his support to this unruly gathering. As a seasoned statesman, he should understand that justice is served in courts, not on the streets,” Onanuga remarked.
He further assured that despite the perceived delays in the judicial process, the government remains dedicated to ensuring due process in Kanu’s case.
“Although the wheels of justice may turn slowly, partly due to the actions of Kanu’s legal team, Nnamdi Kanu will ultimately receive a fair trial for the charges against him,” Onanuga concluded.
