NYCN urges Nigerian youths to shun October protest over Nnamdi Kanu detention, citing court order, security alert, and risk of national instability.
The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has issued a strong warning to Nigerian youths, urging them to stay away from the planned October 20, 2025 protest over Nnamdi Kanu detention.
The council said the demonstration poses serious threats to national peace and could easily spiral into violence.
In a detailed statement released on Sunday, Barrister Buhari Shehu, Chairman of the NYCN Interim Management Committee (IMC), revealed that the Federal Government, through the Nigeria Police Force, had secured a court order from the Federal High Court in Abuja stopping the planned protest.
He explained that the ruling was necessary to maintain law and order across the country, especially in sensitive areas like the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
According to Shehu, the protest, spearheaded by activist Omoyele Sowore, is being organized to demand the release of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.
He noted that the Federal Government’s continued handling of the Nnamdi Kanu detention issue is currently under legal review, and any unauthorized protest could complicate the matter further.
“This development should serve as a serious precautionary signal to Nigerian youths about the potential dangers of joining the demonstration,” Shehu said.
“We urge all youths to exercise restraint, respect the law, and stay out of trouble.”
The NYCN also drew attention to a recent security advisory issued by the United States Embassy in Abuja, warning its citizens to limit movement within the capital due to possible unrest.
Shehu said the advisory underscores the likelihood of tension and the possibility that the demonstration could be hijacked by mischief-makers.
He warned that protests of this nature often start peacefully but end in chaos.
“We have seen in the past how violent elements exploit public gatherings to create disorder. We cannot allow such to happen again,” he stated.
Shehu acknowledged that many young Nigerians are frustrated by unemployment, insecurity, and economic hardship. However, he emphasized that taking to the streets under a tense atmosphere could worsen the situation.
“We understand the anger, but the solution does not lie in violence. The Nnamdi Kanu detention should be addressed through lawful and diplomatic means, not public confrontation,” he added.
The NYCN therefore appealed to the youth to channel their grievances through peaceful platforms such as policy dialogues, community initiatives, and government consultations.
The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to mediating between the government and young citizens in addressing social and economic concerns.
“We urge Nigerian youths to adopt constructive dialogue instead of confrontation,” Shehu said.
“Our council will continue to partner with relevant authorities to promote peace, youth empowerment, and national development.”
He further stressed that the Council’s role is to protect the interests of the youth while maintaining harmony within the country.
“As a national youth body, we have a moral and civic responsibility to guide our young people towards positive engagement,” Shehu continued.
The NYCN statement also reminded parents, guardians, and community leaders to educate their wards on the importance of avoiding situations that could lead to clashes with security forces.
The group expressed concern that any defiance of the court order might result in arrests or injuries.
Meanwhile, security agencies have increased surveillance in major cities, particularly Abuja and Lagos, to forestall any breakdown of order.
Police authorities have warned that violators of the court order will face immediate prosecution under existing laws governing public assembly and disturbance of peace.
Political analysts say that while calls for the release of Nnamdi Kanu have been ongoing, the Nnamdi Kanu detention remains a sensitive national issue that requires a cautious approach.
Many observers have urged both the government and advocacy groups to pursue a political resolution that ensures justice without compromising national security.
Shehu echoed this sentiment, calling on Nigerian youths to remain patient and law-abiding while the government works toward a long-term resolution.
“We cannot achieve peace by disrupting it. Every responsible citizen must think first of Nigeria’s unity before taking any action,” he advised.
Reaffirming the organisation’s vision, Shehu said the NYCN is determined to strengthen youth participation in nation-building through education, dialogue, and innovation rather than confrontation.
“We have no other country but Nigeria,” he emphasized.
“It is our duty to preserve it. We must not allow ourselves to be manipulated into actions that could harm our collective future.”
He concluded by assuring that the NYCN would continue to collaborate with relevant ministries, youth groups, and civic organisations to promote peace, stability, and development.
“Let us be remembered as a generation that built, not one that destroyed,” he stated.
As the October protest date approaches, the Council has reiterated its call for calm, advising Nigerian youths to focus on productive engagements, community service, and nation-building efforts. It also urged the media to promote accurate reporting that discourages violence and fosters unity.
“The youth remain the heartbeat of the nation,” Shehu said finally.
“When the youth stand for peace, the country stands strong.”
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