By Desmond Ogbonmwan
Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, was reportedly hospitalised on Thursday after police dispersed June 12 Democracy Day protesters with teargas in Abuja.
The protest, organised by civil society groups and activists, was part of a nationwide demonstration against worsening insecurity, economic hardship, kidnapping, and what participants described as the government’s failure to adequately address pressing national challenges.
Tension escalated when security operatives moved to disperse demonstrators gathered in parts of the Federal Capital Territory. Witnesses said police officers fired teargas canisters into the crowd, forcing protesters to flee for safety.
Videos circulating online showed confusion at the protest venue as demonstrators scattered amid clouds of teargas.
During the incident, Sowore was reportedly affected by the fumes and later collapsed. Fellow protesters quickly moved him away from the scene before transporting him for medical attention.
The activist’s condition was not immediately disclosed, although reports indicated that he later received treatment following the incident.
Protesters Demand Action on Insecurity
The June 12 demonstration was organised to draw attention to growing concerns over insecurity across Nigeria, including terrorism, banditry, kidnappings, and attacks on communities.
Protesters also criticised rising living costs, inflation, and worsening economic conditions affecting millions of Nigerians.
Many participants carried placards demanding urgent government intervention and improved security for citizens across the country.
The protest formed part of a broader nationwide mobilisation led by activists, labour groups, and civil society organisations marking Democracy Day.
Police Presence Around Key Locations
Prior to the demonstration, security agencies had deployed personnel to strategic locations across Abuja, including Unity Fountain, Eagle Square, and roads leading to the Three Arms Zone.
Authorities had earlier warned against protests around sensitive government facilities and maintained a heavy security presence throughout the capital.
The deployment resulted in confrontations between security operatives and some protesters as the demonstrations unfolded.
Amnesty International Reacts
Human rights organisations, including Amnesty International Nigeria, condemned the use of teargas against peaceful demonstrators.
The organisation described the action as a violation of citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and expression.
Rights groups have repeatedly argued that peaceful protests remain a constitutional right and should not be met with excessive force.
Why This Matters
The incident has reignited debate about freedom of expression, the right to peaceful protest, and the government’s handling of public demonstrations.
It also highlights growing public frustration over insecurity and economic hardship, two issues that continue to dominate national conversations.
As Nigeria marked another Democracy Day anniversary, the confrontation between protesters and security agencies became one of the most talked-about developments of the day.
Background
June 12 is celebrated annually as Nigeria’s Democracy Day in honour of the historic 1993 presidential election widely regarded as one of the country’s freest and fairest polls.
Over the years, activists and civil society groups have often used the occasion to demand reforms, accountability, and improved governance.
Sowore, publisher of Sahara Reporters and former presidential candidate, has remained one of Nigeria’s most visible protest figures and has frequently led demonstrations on issues ranging from corruption to insecurity.
What Happens Next?
Attention is now expected to focus on Sowore’s recovery and whether organisers will continue demonstrations in the coming days.
Human rights groups may also demand investigations into the use of force against protesters, while security agencies are likely to defend their actions as necessary to maintain public order.
The incident is expected to remain a major talking point in Nigeria’s political and civil rights landscape.
Related Stories