The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has declared all custodial centres across the country as red zones ahead of the planned “Free Nnamdi Kanu” protest scheduled for October 20.

 

 

 

Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his re-arrest in June 2021.

 

 

 

 

The protest, announced by activist and Sahara Reporters publisher Omoyele Sowore, is expected to take place around Eagle Square and the Central Business District in Abuja.

 

 

 

 

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) had earlier cautioned groups planning demonstrations against Kanu’s continued detention to respect a court order restricting protests near sensitive government locations. The force also warned that anyone who uses the demonstrations as cover to “commit violence, destroy property, or incite unrest either physically or through social media would be dealt with decisively.”

 

 

 

In a statement issued in Abuja, NCoS spokesperson Abubakar Umar said the declaration was intended to prevent unauthorised access to the correctional facilities during the planned protest.

 

 

 

“The public is hereby informed that all correctional centres are declared as red zones,” Umar said. “The NCoS reiterates that correctional centres are restricted areas. Anyone who has no official business therein should stay off to avoid any untoward incidents or security breaches.”

 

 

 

He urged members of the public to cooperate with security agencies to ensure peace and safety throughout the demonstration.