The ongoing #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest in Abuja has continued to generate heated reactions, with Lere Olayinka, the Senior Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, weighing in on the situation.
Olayinka, who is known for his outspoken nature, took to X (formerly Twitter) to mock the protest organiser and activist, Omoyele Sowore. He described him as a “Cashtivist,” suggesting that his activism is financially motivated rather than driven by genuine concern.
Protest turns chaotic amid police intervention
The protest, which kicked off earlier on Monday morning, saw Sowore leading a group that included Nnamdi Kanu’s lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, Kanu’s brother, and several other supporters of the detained IPOB leader. They gathered in Abuja to demand the unconditional release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
However, the peaceful demonstration was short-lived as security operatives intervened, reportedly firing teargas canisters to disperse the crowd. Eyewitness accounts suggest that the situation quickly escalated into chaos, resulting in multiple arrests. Among those detained were Kanu’s lawyer, his brother, and a few others who participated in the march.
Videos and photos circulating online showed protesters scampering for safety while smoke from teargas filled the air, with bystanders expressing fear over the heavy-handed approach by law enforcement officers.
Olayinka questions Sowore’s credibility and mobilisation
In his reaction to the disrupted protest, Lere Olayinka directly attacked Sowore’s credibility, questioning his ability to mobilise genuine supporters for the cause. He insinuated that Sowore might have received money to stage the protest but failed to deliver on expectations.
He wrote: “But what happened to all the Igbo people Cashtivist Sowore mobilised for this protest? Cashtivist Sowore think say Ibo people will close their shops to come and protest in support of someone who caused the death of their fellow Igbo men and women. Make him sha return the money he collected.”
Olayinka’s post quickly went viral, sparking intense debate online. While some social media users sided with Olayinka, accusing Sowore of using activism for personal gain, others defended Sowore’s consistency in fighting for justice and human rights in Nigeria.
Mixed reactions trail Olayinka’s comment
Several Nigerians took to X to share their opinions, with some arguing that Olayinka’s comments were insensitive given the serious human rights concerns surrounding Nnamdi Kanu’s prolonged detention.
Others claimed that Olayinka’s statement reflected the federal government’s dismissive attitude toward peaceful protests and freedom of expression.
Supporters of Sowore also pointed out that he has been consistent in challenging government oppression, describing the attack on him as an attempt to discredit his activism.
The incident has reignited discussions on civil rights, government accountability, and the use of protests as a legitimate means of demanding justice in Nigeria.
As of the time of this report, Sowore has yet to issue an official response to Olayinka’s remarks, while tension remains high in Abuja following the disrupted protest.