Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, was briefly hospitalised after reportedly collapsing during a Democracy Day protest in Abuja following the use of tear gas by security operatives to disperse demonstrators.
The incident occurred on June 12 as protesters gathered in the Federal Capital Territory to express concerns over insecurity, economic hardship, governance challenges, and what organizers described as the shrinking democratic space in the country.
Witnesses at the scene said security personnel deployed tear gas canisters as demonstrators attempted to continue their march near a designated protest location in Abuja. Amid the confusion, Sowore was reportedly overwhelmed by the fumes and collapsed, prompting fellow protesters and supporters to rush him from the scene for urgent medical attention.
According to individuals involved in the evacuation, the activist regained consciousness while being transported to a hospital and was later placed under medical observation.
Shortly afterward, Sowore released a video update to reassure supporters about his condition. In the recording, he stated that he was recovering and described the substance used by security personnel as “strange” tear gas. He also accused authorities of attempting to suppress peaceful dissent and discourage citizens from exercising their constitutional rights to assembly and free expression.
The protest formed part of nationwide Democracy Day demonstrations commemorating the June 12, 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as one of the freest and fairest elections in Nigeria’s history. The election, believed to have been won by the late businessman and politician, Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, was annulled by the military government, an action that triggered years of pro-democracy struggles across the country.
This year’s demonstrations drew activists, civil society groups, labour advocates, and concerned citizens who called for urgent action to address rising living costs, insecurity, unemployment, and governance concerns. Protesters carried placards and chanted slogans demanding reforms and greater accountability from public officials.
The reported use of tear gas against demonstrators has reignited debate over the management of public protests and the relationship between security agencies and civil society groups. Human rights organizations have consistently called on authorities to respect the rights of citizens to assemble peacefully while maintaining public order.
Supporters of the protest condemned the incident, arguing that peaceful demonstrations are a fundamental component of democratic governance and should not be met with excessive force. They urged security agencies to exercise restraint and ensure that crowd-control measures comply with national and international human rights standards.
As news of Sowore’s collapse spread on social media, many Nigerians expressed concern about his welfare while others renewed calls for dialogue between government authorities and citizens expressing grievances through peaceful means.
Despite the disruption, protesters in some locations reportedly continued their activities, insisting that Democracy Day should serve not only as a celebration of Nigeria’s democratic journey but also as an opportunity to highlight unresolved national challenges.
The incident has added another layer to ongoing discussions about civic freedoms, public protests, and democratic accountability in Nigeria, as citizens continue to debate the balance between security considerations and the protection of constitutional rights.
