Human rights activist and African Action Congress, AAC, 2027 presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore collapsed and was taken to a hospital after police fired teargas at Democracy Day protesters in Abuja on Friday.
According to Chronicle and Sahara Reporters, the protest began at Berger Bus Stop and was heading towards the Federal Secretariat, where the demonstrators planned to present their demands on insecurity, the release of abducted schoolchildren, and improved governance. Security operatives around Eagle Square fired teargas canisters at close range as the crowd approached the area.
Sowore was among those affected, inhaling teargas fumes and losing consciousness. Fellow protesters quickly moved him away from the scene and provided first aid. Sahara Reporters reported that the police fired a second round of teargas while Sowore was receiving attention, causing further confusion and panic.
Sources close to the activist said Sowore regained consciousness while being transported in a vehicle to an undisclosed hospital. The protesters later regrouped and continued their march, vowing not to be deterred. The incident is part of the wider Falana-led civil society demonstrations that took place across Nigeria on June 12 Democracy Day.
For activists, the use of teargas at a memorial protest over insecurity and governance has reignited debate about how the security services handle peaceful demonstrations in the capital.
Sources: Chronicle; Sahara Reporters; Daily Post
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