The Nigeria Police Force has warned intending protesters, agitating for release of the detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, against any form of protest around the Aso Rock and its environs.

According to a statement by the New Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, released in Abuja on Sunday, the warning followed an order of a Federal High Court, Abuja.

Hundeyin said the court, in a suit between the Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Omoyele Sowore & 4 others, on Oct. 17, restrained any form of protest around the Aso Rock and its environs.

He explained that the court order restrains the respondents and any other persons or groups acting under their instruction from staging protests within and around Aso Rock Villa and its environs.

“Other area are the National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, the Court of Appeal, Eagle Square and Shehu Shagari Way.

“Accordingly, all intending protesters and counter-protest groups are strongly advised to avoid restricted areas and to refrain from any act, capable of provoking confrontation or disturbing public order,” he added.

Hundeyin said the force would ensure the free flow of traffic, protection of lives and property, and security of all law-abiding citizens.

He warned that any person or group that used protests as cover to “incite violence, carry or use offensive weapons, vandalise public or private property, kidnap, or engage in acts likely to cause loss of life or serious injury will be dealt with decisively.

“Offenders will be arrested, subjected to full investigation, and prosecuted under relevant criminal laws, including laws relating to public order, violent conduct and terrorism where applicable.”

He added that those who incite others via social media or other platforms would be investigated and prosecuted, using digital evidence.

According to him, the Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Kayode Egbetokun, has directed the Commissioner of Police (CP) in charge of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and relevant operational commands to ensure strict enforcement of the court order, urging the protesters to channel their grievances through the courts and other lawful avenues rather than the streets.

He assured the public to go about their normal businesses as adequate security arrangements have been made to protect lives and property of law-abiding citizens.