Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) on Tuesday stormed Kugbo Market in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, reportedly harassing traders and market leaders following human rights activist Omoyele Sowore’s mobilisation visit for the October 20 #FreeNnamdiKanu protest.
According to reports, the secret police searched for market leaders shortly after Sowore’s departure, demanding their phone numbers and other details.
Confirming the incident, Sowore stated that several traders informed him about the DSS presence and their interrogation of market executives.
He said, “We have received credible reports that the DSS, in a state of desperation, is intimidating and harassing market leaders in Abuja. This comes after our peaceful mobilisation efforts for the October 20 action to demand Nnamdi Kanu’s freedom.
“We urge citizens not to be discouraged by this show of force. Nothing will stop the planned protest, and no one will be harmed for participating. #FreeNnamdiKanuNow.”
The activist described the development as part of a wider campaign of intimidation against citizens peacefully demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Earlier, on Monday, October 13, Sowore had begun mobilisation activities for the protest, which is scheduled to take place at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. He said the demonstration aims to pressure the government to grant Kanu’s immediate and unconditional release.
Kanu has been in DSS custody since June 2021 following his arrest and extraordinary rendition from Kenya.
During a meeting with the Gudu Igbo Association in Abuja, Sowore appeared alongside Kanu’s special counsel, Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, where they addressed a gathering of supporters who sang solidarity songs and pledged to participate in the upcoming protest.
Sowore also called on prominent southeastern political figures, including Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State, Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, to support the peaceful march.
He reaffirmed that the protest, set to commence at 7 a.m. on October 20, would be conducted peacefully and within the law.
