The National Youth Council of Nigeria, NYCN, says it will not participate in the October 20 protest for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
Our correspondents report that the momentum is building up in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, where the Omoyele Sowore-led protest will take place.
However, in a statement released on Saturday, signed by Barr. Buhari Shehu, Chairman, Interim Management Committee, NYCN, the youths group expressed concern that the planned protest could lead to breakdown of law and order.
Citing concerns raised by the United States embassy in Nigeria over the protest, as well as a court order it said had been obtained by the police, the NYCN urged youths to exercise restraint and stay out of trouble.
The statement read, "The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Interim Management Committee, wishes to bring to the attention of all Nigerian youths a planned protest scheduled for October 20th, 2025.
"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!"
