The Federal Government of Nigeria has filed a lawsuit seeking to halt the planned #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest led by human rights activist Omoyele Sowore.

The suit, filed at the Federal High Court, Abuja, seeks to restrain the pro-democracy convener and three others from leading the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest scheduled for October 20, 2025.

In an ex parte application filed under case number FHC/ABJ/2202/2025 and moved by lawyer Wisdom Madaki on behalf of the government, the Federal Government requested an order to prevent Sowore and three others from participating in, organising, or promoting the protest, which demands the unconditional release of detained separatist leader Nnamdi Kanu.

However, Justice M.G. Umar of Federal High Court 5 refused to grant the government’s requested ex parte injunction.

Instead, the court directed that Sowore be formally put on notice and adjourned the matter to October 21, a day after the scheduled protest.

Sowore, known for his advocacy on civil rights and activism, has been at the forefront of several campaigns calling for the release of detained separatist leader Nnamdi Kanu.

Kanu is the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Sowore recently launched a campaign demanding the release of Kanu, rallying politicians and citizens alike, and expanding the movement to grassroots locations like markets.

Sowore, a former presidential candidate, announced a protest march scheduled for October 20, 2025, aimed at pressuring the Nigerian government to release Kanu. He described the protest as a “historic” march to Aso Rock Villa in Abuja, starting at 7 a.m., and has been actively promoting it under the hashtag #FreeNnamdiKanuNow.

Sowore recently met with former President Goodluck Jonathan to seek his support. Jonathan acknowledged the urgency of resolving Kanu’s case and promised to discuss it with President Bola Tinubu.

Sowore also reached out to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, among others, urging them to back the protest and support efforts toward Kanu’s release. Atiku also endorsed the campaign.

In recent statements, Sowore emphasised that the campaign would extend beyond political circles into markets and public spaces, aiming to mobilise ordinary Nigerians and raise awareness at the grassroots level.

The Bola Tinubu Presidency, through spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, recently criticised Sowore’s actions, accusing him of trying to incite disorder and undermine the rule of law. They reiterated that Kanu is facing treason charges and dismissed the protest as anarchistic.