By Desmond Ogbonmwan
Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, was rushed away from a Democracy Day protest in Abuja on Thursday after police deployed teargas to disperse demonstrators gathered to protest insecurity and economic hardship.
The incident occurred during a June 12 rally organised by a coalition of civil society groups and activists who had assembled in the Federal Capital Territory to demand urgent action on rising insecurity, kidnapping, and the worsening cost of living.
Eyewitnesses at the scene said tension escalated after security operatives moved in to break up the gathering, firing teargas canisters and warning protesters to vacate the area.
Videos circulating online showed protesters running for safety as thick clouds of teargas spread across the protest ground.
Sowore Escorted Away Amid Chaos
According to witnesses, Sowore appeared visibly affected by the teargas fumes during the confrontation.
The activist was quickly assisted by fellow protesters and escorted from the scene in a vehicle as concerns grew over his condition.
At the time of filing this report, there was no official medical update regarding his health status.
The incident has since generated widespread reactions online, with supporters expressing concern and demanding explanations from security authorities.
Police Clamp Down on Demonstration
The police operation followed earlier warnings issued by the Federal Capital Territory Police Command against protests around sensitive government facilities.
Security personnel had earlier mounted barricades around key locations in Abuja, including Unity Fountain, Eagle Square, and major roads leading to the Three Arms Zone.
Despite the restrictions, protesters gathered to mark Democracy Day while drawing attention to what they described as growing insecurity and economic hardship across the country.
June 12 Protest Focused on Insecurity
The demonstration formed part of a broader nationwide protest organised by civil society organisations, labour activists, youth groups, and concerned citizens.
Participants called on the government to intensify efforts to tackle terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and violent attacks affecting communities in different parts of Nigeria.
The protesters also raised concerns over inflation, food prices, unemployment, and the rising cost of living.
The June 12 anniversary commemorates Nigeria’s Democracy Day and is often used by activists to draw attention to governance and human rights issues.
Reactions Trail Incident
News of the confrontation quickly spread across social media, where many Nigerians expressed mixed reactions.
While some condemned the use of teargas against peaceful protesters, others argued that security agencies were enforcing existing restrictions around strategic government facilities.
The development has further fueled conversations surrounding freedom of expression, public demonstrations, and the state of security in Nigeria.
As of the time of this report, neither the Nigeria Police Force nor Sowore’s team had released a detailed statement regarding the incident.
Author:
Desmond Ogbonmwan
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