…says Nigeria can’t afford unrest now
The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has cautioned Nigerian youths against participating in the planned ‘Free Nnamdi Kanu’ protest slated for October 20, 2025, warning that it could lead to a breakdown of law and order.
In a statement issued on Saturday and signed by Barr. Buhari Shehu, Chairman of the NYCN Interim Management Committee, the group expressed concern over the potential consequences of the protest.
Citing a Federal High Court order in Abuja obtained by the Nigeria Police Force, which restrains the organisers from holding or participating in the protest, the NYCN urged youths to exercise restraint and stay out of trouble.
“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 20, 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 organisers from carrying out or participating in the planned protest,” the statement read.
The NYCN also referenced a security advisory issued by the United States Embassy in Abuja, which warned US nationals in Nigeria to avoid the protest due to possible security risks.
“We cite this as a precautionary measure to emphasise the potential risks associated with the planned protest,” it added.
The council stressed that the protest could endanger lives and property, calling on youths to prioritise peace, stability, and national security while exploring lawful avenues to express their grievances.
“We implore 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,” the group warned.
The NYCN reaffirmed its commitment to youth welfare, peace and national development, pledging continued collaboration with relevant stakeholders to address the challenges facing young Nigerians.
“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,” the statement concluded.