The Nigeria Police Force has arrested Prince Emmanuel Kanu, younger brother of detained IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, alongside one of Kanu’s lawyers, during a “Free Nnamdi Kanu Now” protest in Umuahia, Abia State.
According to eyewitnesses, the arrests occurred when protesters converged at the city centre demanding the immediate release of the IPOB leader in compliance with previous court orders.
Police operatives reportedly dispersed the crowd using tear gas before arresting several protesters, including Emmanuel Kanu and the unnamed lawyer.
Security authorities claimed the protest violated existing restrictions on public gatherings, alleging that the demonstration could have been hijacked by “violent elements.”
Human rights groups have since condemned the arrests, calling for their immediate release and urging the government to respect citizens’ right to peaceful assembly.
The development comes amid renewed calls from various civil society organizations and political figures for the Federal Government to comply with court rulings and release Nnamdi Kanu.
