The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has urged all protest groups to respect the subsisting order of the Federal High Court, Abuja Division, which restricts demonstrations around key national institutions in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The reminder follows a ruling delivered on October 17, 2025, by Justice M.G. Umar in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2202/2025 – Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Omoyele Sowore & 4 others The court order restrains the respondents and any other persons acting under their instruction from staging protests within or around Aso Rock Villa the National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, the Court of Appeal Eagle Square and Shehu Shagari Way.
In a statement issued on Saturday, October 18, 2025, by CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Force Public Relations Officer, the Police reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring public peace in line with constitutional provisions.
“The Nigeria Police Force recognises and respects the rights of citizens to peaceful assembly and expression. However, such rights must be exercised responsibly and within the limits of the law, particularly where public safety, national security, and the rights of other citizens are concerned,” the statement said.
The Police described the court’s intervention as a safeguard not a suppression, of citizens’ rights, adding that the order would remain in force until further judicial proceedings are concluded.
The statement warned that anyone who uses protests as a cover to incite violence, vandalise property, carry offensive weapons, or engage in other criminal acts would face decisive legal consequences. Offenders, according to the Police, will be arrested, investigated, and prosecuted under relevant laws, including those relating to public order, violent conduct, and terrorism where applicable.
The Force also cautioned that individuals who incite unrest through social media or other platforms would not be spared, as digital evidence would be used in investigations and prosecutions.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has directed the FCT Commissioner of Police and other relevant commands to ensure strict enforcement of the court order, maintain visible deployments across sensitive areas, and safeguard the lives and property of residents.
The statement assured law-abiding Nigerians of adequate security arrangements and urged residents to continue their daily activities without fear.
“Anyone found in breach of the court’s order or in contempt of the law will be arrested and prosecuted,” Hundeyin concluded.
