Pandemonium broke out at Eagle Square on Friday evening after security operatives, including the police, fired tear gas at delegates, journalists, and supporters attempting to access the 8th National Convention of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Videos circulating online captured chaotic scenes as attendees struggled to breathe, coughed violently, and ran for safety. Several individuals were reportedly affected by the gas, with some fainting while others fled the area, abandoning personal belongings in the process.
The incident occurred amid a massive influx of participants, as over 8,000 delegates from across Nigeria converged on the venue. The high-profile event was attended by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, dozens of state governors, and key members of the federal cabinet. Tight security around the venue led to road closures and severe traffic disruptions, forcing many accredited attendees to trek long distances before reaching the entrance.
Conflicting Accounts Over Cause
Eyewitnesses alleged that security personnel deployed tear gas indiscriminately, even against individuals with valid accreditation. A delegate from Taraba State claimed he was affected despite presenting proper identification. Journalists also reported being denied access tags earlier at accreditation centres, only to face further obstruction and tear gas at the gates.
Security officials, however, pointed to overcrowding and the need for crowd control as justification for their actions. Critics have described the response as excessive, citing the presence of heavily armed personnel and reports of intimidation at key entry points.
Convention Continues Amid Tension
Despite the disruption outside, proceedings inside Eagle Square continued largely without interruption. The convention focused on the election of a new National Working Committee (NWC), with several positions reportedly filled through consensus in a bid to maintain party unity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
President Tinubu addressed party members, emphasizing cohesion under his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The event also featured entertainment from popular Nigerian artists, adding a celebratory tone within the venue despite the turmoil outside.
As of the time of reporting, APC officials have yet to issue an official statement regarding the tear gas incident. However, the development has sparked widespread reactions online, raising concerns about crowd management and security conduct at one of the country’s most significant political gatherings.
The incident underscores the logistical challenges and heightened tensions that often accompany major political events in Nigeria, even within the ranks of the ruling party.
