#FreeNnamdiKanuNow Protest Grounds Traffic on Abuja–Keffi Highway See Photos

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 A major traffic gridlock hit the Kugbo–Nyanya Expressway on Monday morning as protesters demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), disrupted vehicular movement into the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The demonstration, tagged #FreeNnamdiKanuNow, was reportedly led by human rights activist Omoyele Sowore and commenced around 7 a.m. near the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja.

The protesters are demanding the immediate release of Kanu, who has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since 2021 on terrorism-related charges.

According to a report by NTA News, the resulting congestion extended along the busy Abuja–Keffi highway, with parked vehicles and crowds blocking several lanes.

“Motorists heading into the FCT from the Kugbo/Nyanya axis report slow movement, with several lanes reportedly blocked by parked vehicles and protest-related activity,” the station said.

The corridor, known for frequent bottlenecks during security operations, became virtually impassable as both commuters and protesters struggled for space.

Despite police warnings and a Federal High Court order against the protest, demonstrators insisted on marching toward the Presidential Villa, heightening security alerts across the capital.

Earlier reports by Emmynet24 news media indicated that security operatives fired tear gas canisters at protesters, including Sowore, to disperse the crowd. Officers reportedly cordoned off the Transcorp Hilton area and adjoining streets, firing tear gas even before large numbers of protesters arrived.

The situation has created tension in the city, with rights groups emphasising citizens’ constitutional right to peaceful protest.

Photos of the gridlock below: