Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore was reportedly hospitalised on Friday after collapsing during a Democracy Day protest in Abuja, following the alleged use of tear gas by security operatives to disperse demonstrators.
The incident occurred at the Eagle Square area of the Federal Capital Territory, where protesters had gathered to mark June 12 and express concerns over economic hardship, insecurity and governance issues affecting the country.
Witnesses at the scene said the protest was initially peaceful before security personnel moved in to disperse the crowd.
Moments later, confusion erupted as tear gas canisters were reportedly fired, forcing participants to flee in different directions.
Amid the commotion, Sowore was said to have been overwhelmed by the effects of the gas and subsequently collapsed.
Supporters and fellow protesters quickly rushed to assist him before he was taken away for medical attention.
Videos circulating on social media showed the activist being attended to by associates shortly after the incident.
The footage sparked reactions from supporters and civil society groups, many of whom questioned the handling of the protest by security agencies.
A protest participant who witnessed the development said the demonstration was intended to draw attention to national challenges and not to create unrest.
“We came out to make our voices heard on issues affecting ordinary Nigerians. What happened was unfortunate because citizens should be able to express their concerns peacefully,” the protester said.
Furthermore, several activists condemned the disruption of the demonstration, arguing that peaceful assembly remains a fundamental democratic right.
They called on authorities to ensure that citizens can participate in civic activities without intimidation.
As of the time of filing this report, security agencies had not issued a detailed statement on the circumstances surrounding the incident. Likewise, no official medical update had been released regarding Sowore’s condition.
June 12 is celebrated annually as Nigeria’s Democracy Day in recognition of the country’s democratic journey and the historic 1993 presidential election widely regarded as one of the fairest in the nation’s history.
AFRIPOST reports that this latest development has renewed debate over the relationship between security agencies and protesters, with rights advocates urging greater protection of civil liberties during public demonstrations.