The Nigeria Police Force on Monday explained why its officers used teargas to disperse protesters demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu in Abuja.
The protest, which began near the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, was halted when the crowd reportedly attempted to move toward Aso Villa.
According to Force spokesperson, CSP Ben Hundeyin, the protesters violated an existing court order that bars demonstrations in restricted areas of the Federal Capital Territory, including the Aso Villa, National Assembly, Force Headquarters, Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way.
The police said the measure was taken to prevent a breach of peace and ensure free movement within the city.
Force spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said officers acted within the law and performed their duty to maintain order.
He explained that the police did not block roads as alleged but only cleared the routes after the protesters had obstructed traffic.
The “Free Nnamdi Kanu Now” rally attracted heavy security presence around central Abuja as protesters gathered to demand the immediate release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Police said the dispersal was necessary to restore normal activities and protect other citizens from disruption.
Hundeyin wrote on X formerly Twitter: “Police teargas protesters attempting to approach Aso Villa in clear contravention of a court order restricting protesters from the Villa, National Assembly, Force Headquarters, Court of Appeal, Eagle Square and Shehu Shagari Way.
“We are the country’s foremost law enforcement agency. We carried out our mandate.
“And we did NOT block the road but cleared it after it was blocked by the protesters. This is to enable other Nigerians easy passage to their respective destinations.”
