Heavy Congestion on the Kugbo‑Nyanya Expressway Amid Protest Preparations

Abuja, October 20, 2025

A major traffic gridlock has paralyzed movement on the Kugbo‑Nyanya stretch of the Abuja‑Keffi Expressway early Monday morning, as thousands of commuters struggle to make their way into the Federal Capital Territory.

The congestion appears to be linked to preparations for a planned protest calling for the release of detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu. Protest-related activity, including the presence of placard-carrying demonstrators and several parked vehicles along the highway, has reportedly blocked multiple lanes, compounding the usual morning rush.

Eyewitnesses and motorists on the scene described the traffic as “practically at a standstill,” with some commuters abandoning commercial transport to proceed on foot. Security personnel have also been spotted in the area, managing both the crowd and the flow of traffic.

This corridor — a vital link between Abuja and its eastern satellite towns — has a long history of vulnerability to disruption. Previous demonstrations, security checks, and operations have often led to severe congestion, highlighting the infrastructural strain on this critical artery during periods of social or political unrest.
As of 9:00 a.m., traffic authorities had not issued an official advisory, but motorists are being urged to seek alternative routes and expect significant delays.