The Nigerian Presidency has described former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s endorsement of a planned protest for the release of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu as surprising and opportunistic. The protest, orchestrated by activist Omoyele Sowore, is scheduled for October 20, 2025, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
In a statement by Presidential aide, the government criticized Atiku for aligning with a move seen as politically motivated and potentially disruptive to the rule of law. The presidency insists that legal processes are ongoing and that justice must be served within the framework of the law.
Atiku had publicly supported the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow campaign, calling for Kanu’s immediate release or due prosecution, emphasizing that the prolonged detention despite court bail orders damages Nigeria’s democratic reputation.
The government reiterated its commitment to due process but condemned calls for street protests as unhelpful to national unity and security. The controversy underscores deep divisions in Nigeria’s political landscape regarding the handling of IPOB and related security matters.