Ahead of the planned nationwide protest by the Ohanaeze Youth Council, OYC to press for the release of the leader of proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu from detention, the National Youth Council of Nigeria, NYCN, has appealed to Nigerians, especially the youth to prioritize peace, stability, and national security.
The OYC had announced a total lockdown of all markets, parks, and businesses by Igbos nationwide on Monday, October 20, 2025 in solidarity with the FreeNnamdiKanu protest at the Presidential Villa and called for full compliance, warning that those who defy the order would be seen as “enemies of the people.”
The group also called on President Bola Tinubu to release Nnamdi Kanu, saying continued detention threatens peace and unity in Nigeria.
But the Interim Management Committee of the NYCN urged the leaders and members of the Ohanaeze Youth Council to explore alternative and lawful means of expressing their grievances and demands, expressing concern that the planned protest may lead to a breakdown of law and order, which could put lives and property at risk.
The NYCN Interim Management Committee, in a statement issued by its chairman, Barrister Buhari Shehu, drew the attention of all Nigerian youths to the planned protest and urged them to exercise restraint and stay out of trouble.
‎”We have been informed that the Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Nigerian Police Force, has obtained an Order of the Federal High Court in Abuja, restraining the organizers of the protest, organizing, carrying out or participating in the planned protest.
‎”Furthermore, the US Embassy in Abuja has issued a warning to US nationals in Nigeria, advising them to avoid the planned protest. We cite this as a precautionary measure to emphasize the potential risks associated with the planned protest.
‎”In light of this development, we urge all Nigerian youths to exercise restraint and stay out of trouble. We are concerned that the planned protest may lead to a breakdown of law and order, which could put lives and property at risk.
‎
“‎We implore all Nigerian youths to prioritize peace, stability, and national security. We urge you to explore alternative and lawful means of expressing your grievances and demands.
‎
‎”We remain committed to promoting youth welfare, peace, and development in Nigeria. We will continue to work with relevant stakeholders to address the challenges facing our youth and our nation.
“We have no other country and place to live than Nigeria and we all must come together to safeguard our dear nation. Stay Safe, Stay Informed,” the NYCN stated.
‎
