Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore reportedly collapsed and was rushed to hospital after a confrontation with police during a Democracy Day protest at Unity Fountain, Abuja on Friday.
Witnesses said Sowore lost consciousness after police operatives deployed tear gas to disperse protesters demonstrating against insecurity, economic hardship and poor governance.
–Protest disrupted by tear gas–
The protest drew scores of activists and civil society groups to Unity Fountain.
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Security personnel fired tear gas canisters in what witnesses described as an attempt to break up the gathering.
Chaos erupted as protesters scampered for safety amid clouds of tear gas. In the confusion, Sowore was reportedly affected by the gas and collapsed at the protest ground.
Supporters and fellow activists rushed to his aid and evacuated him from the scene. Sources close to the activist said he regained consciousness while being transported away in a vehicle.
Sowore has since been taken to an undisclosed hospital for further examination and treatment, according to reports.
–Tensions rise at Democracy Day protests–
The incident heightened tensions at the Abuja demonstration, where protesters had gathered to express concerns over rising insecurity, economic challenges and governance issues.
Friday’s protest formed part of nationwide Democracy Day demonstrations. Similar #EndBadGovernance protests were reported in Lagos with demonstrators demanding action on hardship, unemployment and the rising cost of living.
No official statement had been released by the police at the time of filing this report.
