Human rights activist and African Action Congress presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has pledged to continue public protests after collapsing during a demonstration in Abuja on Friday.
The incident occurred when police operatives fired tear gas to disperse protesters gathered over worsening insecurity and recent killings across Nigeria.
–Protest turns chaotic–
Witnesses said the demonstration began peacefully but turned chaotic after security personnel moved to stop protesters from advancing beyond a restricted area. Sowore, who was leading the protest, reportedly inhaled tear gas, began gasping for air, and later collapsed at the scene.
In a statement on his X account with video of the confrontation, Sowore described the incident as an “unprovoked attack by the police.”
He alleged that operatives discharged what he called “a strange gas” at close range that severely affected his breathing.
Despite collapsing, Sowore said protests would continue. “Nigerians have a constitutional right to peaceful assembly and expression,” he stated.
–Allegations of suppression–
Sowore claimed the use of force in the Federal Capital Territory reflected “increasing efforts to suppress public dissent and intimidate citizens exercising their democratic rights.”
He also alleged the deployment of force was aimed at silencing opposition voices and discouraging criticism of government policies.
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The protest was organised to draw attention to insecurity in different parts of the country, with participants demanding stronger measures to protect lives and property.
–Police yet to respond–
As of press time, the Nigeria Police Force had not issued an official response to Sowore’s allegations.
Medical details of Sowore’s condition were not disclosed in his statement.
He appeared to recover and continued addressing supporters after the incident.
