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Nationwide #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest: Minimal turnout as citizens cite court proceedings, business disruption fears, and past violence
Nationwide #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest: Minimal turnout as citizens cite court proceedings, business disruption fears, and past violence
By: Zagazola Makama
The nationwide protest calling for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, organized by activist Omoyele Sowore, recorded minimal participation on Monday, with citizens across Nigeria largely complying with security directives, Zagazola report.
Law enforcement authorities attribute the low turnout to public recognition that the matter is currently in court, widespread fears of potential disruption to businesses, and lingering resentment over past violent incidents linked to the sit-at-home orders enforced by IPOB and its paramilitary wing, ESN.
In the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), joint security operatives maintained heightened presence at government buildings, critical infrastructures, and other vulnerable points from early morning. Stop-and-search operations and patrols were intensified around restricted zones, including Eagle Square and the Presidential Villa. The court has also restricted protest activities at some strategic locations within the city.
Omoyele Sowore and a small group of protesters attempting to march towards the Villa were intercepted by security operatives. Four individuals were arrested after resisting dispersal, but no violent clashes were reported. For about an hour vehicular movement was restricted in some part of the city due to fear of violence.
Public sentiment in Abuja indicated that many residents deliberately stayed indoors. A market trader in Wuse, John Uche, stated, “People refused to come out because the matter is in court. We do not want to be used to cause violence or to attract arrest. Our businesses are our livelihood, and we cannot risk them for a protest that may escalate.” Another resident added, “We also remember the losses from the IPOB sit-at-home orders. Thousands died during that period and many more are still being killed for nothing. We cannot risk repeating history.”
In the North Central region, Niger and Kogi States reported full compliance with security directives. In Niger State, no protests took place. Security forces maintained close surveillance of border and remote communities to prevent opportunistic attacks disguised as protest activity. Citizens interviewed in Minna confirmed a general unwillingness to participate. A civil servant, Chukwu Emeka Silas said, “We do not want trouble. The courts are handling the matter, and we trust the legal process more than street demonstrations.” In Kogi, similar sentiments were expressed by residents, with traders emphasizing fears that protests could disrupt their daily earnings.
In the North East, Borno and Yobe States remained calm, with security agencies focused on internal patrols and counter-insurgency operations. A resident in Maiduguri noted, “We cannot risk venturing into protests while Boko Haram and bandits are still a threat. Safety of lives comes first.”
In the North West, states including Zamfara, Sokoto, Kaduna, Kebbi, Katsina, Kaduna and Jigawa reported no protest activity. Citizens interviewed highlighted a mix of legal caution and memories of past unrest during IPOB sit-at-home orders as primary reasons for staying indoors. “The last time there was a protest like this, (ENDSARS) businesses were destroyed and people killed,” said a community leader in Sokoto.
In the South West, Lagos State reported only a lone man attempting a solidarity walk, which was quickly dispersed. Residents cited fear of arbitrary arrests and possible hijacking of the protest by violent groups. In Ogun, Oyo, and Ondo States, authorities confirmed calm, with traders and commuters indicating that they had chosen to focus on work rather than risk being involved in demonstrations.
In the South-South and South-East, including Rivers, Bayelsa, Edo, Cross River, Enugu, Imo, Anambra, and Abia States, law enforcement reported minimal or no protest participation. In Imo State, security agencies carried out joint patrols in all major towns, including Orlu and Owerri, with residents praising the proactive measures. A resident of Owerri said, “We stayed home because Nnamdi Kanu’s directives in the past caused deaths and chaos. We don’t want to relive those days.” Similarly, in Anambra and Abia, only a few youths were briefly sighted holding banners, who voluntarily dispersed without incident.
In the South-East, states such as Ebonyi and Enugu, and the South-South including Delta and Akwa Ibom, reported zero participation in the protest. Citizens expressed concern that protests could provide opportunities for criminal elements to hijack public spaces. “We cannot trust that protests would remain peaceful,” a market association leader in Uyo remarked.
Across the country, police and security agencies commended citizens for their adherence to lawful directives, noting that the minimal turnout reflected public trust in the judicial process and general weariness of disruptions caused by past sit-at-home orders. The nationwide security approach, involving early intelligence, proactive patrols, and coordinated inter-agency operations, successfully prevented the protest from escalating.
Authorities reiterated that future demonstrations must be conducted strictly within legal frameworks to avoid confrontation, emphasizing that citizens’ rights to lawful protest are recognized, but security and public order remain paramount.
Nationwide #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest: Minimal turnout as citizens cite court proceedings, business disruption fears, and past violence
Troops Repel Terrorist Infiltration in Kanama, Neutralise Four Insurgents
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have repelled a Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorist infiltration into Kanama town, neutralising four insurgents during a swift response operation in Borno State.
Security sources said the incident occurred at about 6:00 p.m. on April 22 when troops of 159 Battalion, deployed in Kanama, responded to sounds of gunfire within the town.
On arrival, the troops reportedly discovered that terrorists had infiltrated parts of the community.
The troops immediately made contact and engaged the attackers with disciplined fire, forcing them to retreat in disarray.
Subsequent exploitation of the general area led to the neutralisation of four terrorists.
One member of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) sustained injuries during the encounter and has been evacuated for medical attention.
No military equipment was lost during the operation.
Items recovered from the terrorists include two torchlight mobile phones and the sum of ₦21,000.
Security sources said the general situation across the theatre remains calm but unpredictable, while troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remain high.
Troops Repel Terrorist Infiltration in Kanama, Neutralise Four Insurgents
News
Dramatic Testimony Rocks Nwaukoni Terrorism Trial In Asaba — Doctor Confirms Gunshot Wounds In Palace Attack Case
Dramatic Testimony Rocks Nwaukoni Terrorism Trial In Asaba — Doctor Confirms Gunshot Wounds In Palace Attack Case
The high-profile terrorism trial in Charge No. FHC/ASB/18C/2024 took a dramatic and gripping turn this week at the Federal High Court, Asaba, as explosive evidence and powerful witness testimonies continue to unfold against Mike Nwaukoni (aka “Supu”) and his alleged accomplices.
Standing trial alongside him are prominent figures including Barrister Francis Okolie, Secretary of the Ogwashi-Uku Development Association (ODA), and Mazi Elue Adigwe, the association’s Secretary-General, among others accused in connection with the violent October 12, 2023 attack on the Palace of the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku.
🔴 Doctor’s Testimony Leaves Court in Silence
In what court observers have described as one of the most chilling moments of the trial so far, Dr. Ezeike Ugochukwu Godwin took the witness stand and delivered a clinical yet deeply emotional account of the injuries sustained by a vigilante operative assigned to protect the Palace.
The doctor confirmed that the victim suffered multiple gunshot wounds, including injuries to the head and upper limbs, describing in precise medical terms the severity of the trauma.
According to his testimony, the victim was brought into the emergency unit in a state of intense pain and critical distress, alongside several others wounded during the attack.
Dr. Ezeike further told the court that the patient was referred from the Divisional Police Headquarters in Ogwashi-Uku, reinforcing the official chain of response following the violent incident.
🔴 Police Investigator Details Chaos and Destruction
A day earlier, on April 21, 2026, the court heard from Inspector Ijeoma Ovat, the initial Investigating Police Officer (IPO), who painted a harrowing picture of the aftermath of the attack.
She testified about the widespread chaos, multiple casualties, and destruction that followed the invasion of the Palace during the controversial Ineh Festival. Crucially, she tendered photographic evidence showing heavily damaged police and vigilante vehicles, corroborating claims of a coordinated and violent assault.
Sources within the prosecution confirm that the damage to the vehicles was extensive and consistent with armed aggression.
🔴 Witnesses Tie Defendants to Armed
AssaultEarlier testimonies in the trial have reportedly identified the defendants as active participants, alleging they were armed with guns and other dangerous weapons during the attack. Witnesses have also pointed to Mike Nwaukoni as a central figure who allegedly instigated and coordinated the operation.
🔴 Passport Request Sparks Legal Firestorm
In a fresh development that has further intensified proceedings, lead prosecutors in the case including CSP Samuel Mallum Esq and A.I Aminu Esq from the Police Legal Directorate in Abuja have strongly opposed an application by Nwaukoni’s legal team seeking the temporary release of his international passport for overseas travel.
According to sources, the prosecution argued that granting such a request poses a serious flight risk, warning that the defendant could attempt to evade justice, seek asylum, or acquire foreign citizenship.
The prosecution also suggested that the move may be a deliberate tactic to delay the trial, particularly as significant portions of the case have already been established.
The matter has been adjourned for further consideration, with hearings expected to resume in late May, continuing into early June 2026.
🔴 Calm Returns to Ogwashi-Uku Amid Trial
Meanwhile, community sources in Ogwashi-Uku report a notable return of peace and stability since the commencement of the trial. Residents have expressed hope that the judicial process will be seen through to a swift and just conclusion, bringing lasting closure to one of the most serious security incidents in the Kingdom’s recent history.
Dramatic Testimony Rocks Nwaukoni Terrorism Trial In Asaba — Doctor Confirms Gunshot Wounds In Palace Attack Case
Troops Intercept Suspected Terrorist Logistics Supplier, Seize PMS in Borno
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have arrested a suspected ISWAP/JAS logistics supplier and intercepted a large quantity of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) concealed in a tricycle in Borno State.
Security sources said the suspect was apprehended at about 9:10 a.m. on April 21 by troops of 159 Battalion at a checkpoint within Sector 2 Area of Responsibility.
The suspect was reportedly conveying PMS concealed in 15 sacks, disguised with bags of sachet water in an attempt to evade detection.
Preliminary investigations indicated that the consignment was being transported to Kanama town and neighbouring communities around Dikwa and Bultuwa, areas believed to be within terrorist influence.
Items recovered from the suspect include a mobile phone and the sum of ₦34,950.
The sources said the suspect and recovered exhibits are in military custody for further investigation and necessary action.
They added that the interception forms part of ongoing operations aimed at disrupting terrorist logistics networks and denying them access to critical supplies across the North-East theatre.
Troops Intercept Suspected Terrorist Logistics Supplier, Seize PMS in Borno
Troops Clear Terrorist Enclaves, Recover Items in Katsina Operation
Troops Repel Terrorist Infiltration in Kanama, Neutralise Four Insurgents
Troops Respond to Attack in Zamfara, IED Incident Recorded Without Casualties
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