Public affairs analyst, Abdulhameed Musa Abdullahi, has faulted the recent protests held in Abuja and parts of the South-East calling for the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, describing them as misguided and capable of threatening national stability.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Abdullahi said he was perplexed by the actions of those who organized the protests under the banner of #FreeNnamdiKanuNow without following due process.
He noted that while Nigeria’s democracy guarantees freedom of expression, such freedom must operate within the bounds of the law.
“The recent protest in Abuja and across the South-East once again highlights the delicate line between civic activism and actions capable of threatening our national stability,” he said.
“Freedom of expression is a constitutional right, but it must be exercised responsibly and without endangering public order or national unity.”
According to Abdullahi, the protests, which defied government directives against public gatherings near correctional centres, disrupted major parts of the Federal Capital Territory and crippled social and economic activities in some parts of the South-East.
He praised security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, NSCDC, DSS, and the Nigerian Army, for their swift and coordinated response that prevented what could have escalated into widespread violence.
“The security agencies acted professionally to restore calm and protect lives and property,” he added.
Abdullahi said the main motivation behind the protests seemed to be the recent presidential clemency granted to some inmates, which IPOB supporters wrongly interpreted as a reason for Kanu’s release.
However, he clarified that such comparisons were misplaced.
“It is misleading and irresponsible for certain individuals to compare Nnamdi Kanu’s ongoing case with the President’s recent act of clemency,” he stated.
“Clemency applies only to convicted individuals who have served part of their sentence and shown genuine remorse not to those still facing trial for offences against the Nigerian state.”
He explained that Kanu’s case, which involves charges of treasonable felony and terrorism-related offences, remains under judicial process.
“These offences, which fall under Sections 37 to 41 of the Criminal Code Act and the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022, are grave crimes against the sovereignty and unity of Nigeria,” Abdullahi noted.
“Such matters can only be resolved in a court of law, not through street agitation.”
The analyst also urged Nigerian youths to rise above emotional politics and embrace civic responsibility rooted in patriotism and respect for institutions.
“True activism builds the nation; it does not tear it down. Leadership begins with discipline, respect for institutions, and faith in the rule of law.”
“The unity of Nigeria is non-negotiable, and no individual or group will be allowed to undermine the collective peace of over 250 million citizens. We have no other country but this blessed nation. Let us stand together for peace, justice, and one indivisible Nigeria.”