Sowore Collapsed During Abuja Protest as Security Operatives Fire Teargas
Activist and 2027 presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, Omoyele Sowore, reportedly collapsed on Friday during a Democracy Day protest in Abuja after security operatives allegedly fired teargas at demonstrators near the Force Headquarters.
The protest was part of a nationwide mobilisation organised by a coalition of civic groups, labour activists, youth organisations, and social movements, which designated June 12 as a day of mass action to draw attention to worsening insecurity, economic hardship, and declining living conditions across the country.
The coalition’s position was contained in a statement jointly signed by prominent human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN), President of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, Yinka Folarin, #EndBadGovernance Movement organiser Hassan Soweto, and musician and activist Falz.
The demonstration in Abuja reportedly turned chaotic when security operatives deployed teargas to disperse protesters. Videos circulating on social media showed Sowore lying on the ground amid the confusion as fellow protesters rushed to assist him.
Footage shared on X by user ChuksEricE showed the activist surrounded by protesters who attempted to revive him by fanning him with placards.
“Them don start. Police are already shooting. Sowore don faint ohh. Nigeria Police,” some protesters were heard shouting in the video.
As the situation intensified, Sowore was eventually assisted into a vehicle while trying to recover. In the footage, he was seen covering his nose with a red handkerchief as supporters continued fanning him.
A female voice in the background could be heard saying, “They are still shooting more tear gas.”
Shortly after the group entered the vehicle and drove away from the scene, Sowore was asked about his condition. Responding briefly, he said, “Yeah,” when asked if he was stable.
Additional eyewitness videos showed protesters struggling to regroup as security operatives continued to disperse the crowd with repeated teargas canisters.
As of the time of filing this report, Sowore’s condition had not been officially disclosed, while security agencies were yet to issue a statement on the incident.
The protest formed part of Democracy Day activities across the country, with participants calling for urgent government action on security challenges, economic reforms, and the welfare of Nigerians.
Source: Punch