A fiery protest demanding the release of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu, has intensified across Nigeria, drawing sharp criticism from activist Farotimi, who described the nation’s democracy as a “pretend farce.” The demonstrations, fueled by anger over Kanu’s continued detention despite a 2022 Court of Appeal ruling ordering his release, have captured national attention with widespread protests, especially in Abuja and the South-East.
Led by prominent activists including Omoyele Sowore, protesters have marched in defiance of police directives and court orders restricting demonstrations to certain areas. Clashes broke out as security forces deployed tear gas and blocked routes towards Aso Rock, the presidential residence, resulting in injuries to demonstrators and journalists. Authorities have emphasized maintaining public order but faced backlash for what critics see as suppression of lawful dissent.
The protests, organized under the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow campaign, have also brought economic activities in states like Enugu and Abia to a standstill through sit-at-home orders, signaling strong regional support for Kanu’s release. The movement highlights deep-seated frustrations over perceived injustices and political repression linked to ethnic and separatist issues in Nigeria.
Meanwhile, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) condemned the protests as politically motivated attempts to destabilize the government, warning against allowing the crisis to escalate. The party urged respect for judicial processes and called for unity under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The wave of demonstrations underscores Nigeria’s ongoing struggle with managing ethnic divisions, political dissent, and demands for justice. Farotimi’s blunt characterization of democracy as “pretend” reflects widespread cynicism among many Nigerians regarding governance and the rule of law.