Atiku Backs Sowore’s Planned October 20 Protest, Calls for Peaceful March to Aso Rock
In a surprising political development, former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has declared his full support for the peaceful protest being organised by activist and Sahara Reporters publisher, Omoyele Sowore, scheduled for October 20, 2025.
The protest, according to Sowore, aims to demand the release of Nnamdi Azikiwe, who has reportedly been in detention under controversial circumstances.
The march, themed “Freedom and Justice for All,” is expected to commence in Abuja and move toward Aso Rock Presidential Villa, symbolising a call for accountability, unity, and respect for democratic rights.
In a statement released on Thursday through his media aide, Atiku emphasised that peaceful protest remains a constitutional right of every Nigerian and must be respected by the government.
“Nigeria’s democracy thrives when citizens can freely express their grievances without fear of intimidation or persecution. I support any peaceful, lawful gathering that seeks to advance justice, fairness, and national unity,” Atiku stated.
The former Vice President also urged security agencies to ensure the safety of protesters, noting that the right to peaceful assembly is enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution and should not be infringed upon.
Sowore, who confirmed Atiku’s endorsement via a post on X (formerly Twitter), described the move as “a rare show of solidarity across political divides,” adding that the planned march is not about politics but about the soul of the nation.
“This protest is not about parties or power it’s about people. I commend Atiku for standing with Nigerians who want justice, fairness, and freedom,” Sowore wrote.
Meanwhile, security analysts have urged the government to open dialogue with organisers to avoid confrontation, citing lessons from previous nationwide demonstrations.
As preparations intensify ahead of October 20, all eyes are now on how the administration will respond to what could become one of the largest civic actions in recent years.
