Human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, and several protesters calling for the release of Nnamdi Kanu came under heavy gunfire and tear gas from security operatives during a demonstration in Abuja.

Security operatives, including police and military personnel, stormed the protest grounds around 7 a.m. on Monday, dispersing protesters who had gathered to demand the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

A viral video from the scene showed Sowore and several other protesters fleeing as gunshots rang out.

The demonstrators had planned to march to the Presidential Villa, Aso Rock, to press their demands, despite prior warnings from the Nigeria Police Force against holding any protest near the area.