The Nigeria Police Force has explained why it detained Aloy Ejimakor, counsel to the detained IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, and Kanu’s brother during the Free Nnamdi Kanu protest that took place in Abuja on Monday.
Police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin, who spoke on Channels Television’s Politics Today, said the two men were arrested alongside six others for allegedly attempting to force their way into areas restricted during the protest. Hundeyin noted that officers on the ground had issued several warnings before taking action to maintain law and order in the capital.
According to him, “Nnamdi Kanu’s brother and his lawyer insisted on gaining access to a restricted area, and despite repeated caution, they refused to comply. Along with six others arrested near Transcorp, they were taken into custody for violating that directive.”
The police PRO further confirmed that all eight individuals are currently being held at the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID), where they are under investigation. He emphasized that their detention is procedural and that they will be prosecuted once investigations are complete.
Hundeyin reiterated that the police had earlier warned against breaching court orders or security protocols during the protest. He assured the public that due process would be followed, stating, “Anyone who violates the law will be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted. We expect to conclude the investigation tonight, and within 24 hours, they will be arraigned in court.”
The Free Nnamdi Kanu protest, which was staged by supporters demanding the release of the IPOB leader, led to increased security presence around key areas of Abuja, including the Transcorp Hilton axis. Police authorities say the arrests were necessary to prevent any escalation or threat to public peace.
The development has continued to spark conversations on social media, with many Nigerians calling for transparency in the handling of the case and urging authorities to uphold the rights of those arrested.