…Activist alleges security operatives deployed “strange gas” at close range
…Amnesty International condemns crackdown, demands investigation
By Peter Taiwo
A Democracy Day protest in Abuja turned chaotic on Friday after police operatives fired tear gas canisters at demonstrators, including activist , during a rally against insecurity and economic hardship in the country.
The protest, organised by a coalition of civic groups as part of activities marking the celebration, drew participants demanding urgent government action on worsening insecurity, rising cost of living and governance challenges.
The demonstrators were reportedly marching from Berger Bus Stop towards when security operatives stationed around the venue dispersed them with tear gas.
Eyewitnesses said the protesters were calling for an end to persistent insecurity, the release of abducted school children and improved governance before the confrontation occurred.
Videos circulating on social media showed protesters fleeing the scene as tear gas engulfed the area. One of the videos captured Sowore being assisted by fellow demonstrators after appearing to struggle for breath.
Another footage showed the activist lying on the ground while receiving assistance from supporters and medical volunteers at the scene.
Reacting to the incident, Sowore alleged that operatives of the deployed what he described as a “strange gas” at close range.
According to him, the substance affected his breathing and caused him to collapse during the protest.
“Today, operatives of the Nigeria Police Force deployed a strange gas at the protest ground, at close range, which entered my lungs and left me struggling to breathe before I eventually collapsed,” he stated on his social media platform.
The activist argued that the incident reflected what he described as increasing attempts to suppress dissent and intimidate citizens exercising their constitutional rights.
Sowore further accused the administration of of using force to silence opposition voices.
He, however, vowed that the protesters would continue their advocacy despite the development.
As of the time of filing this report, the police had not issued an official statement regarding the incident.
The development has attracted reactions from rights groups and civil society organisations.
In a statement posted on social media, condemned what it described as a reckless attack on peaceful demonstrators.
The organisation said the deliberate targeting of Sowore should be thoroughly investigated by relevant authorities.
Amnesty International noted that peaceful assembly and freedom of expression are fundamental rights guaranteed under the Nigerian Constitution and international human rights instruments.
The group alleged that authorities were increasingly relying on force to disperse peaceful gatherings across the country.
It further argued that the government must demonstrate a stronger commitment to protecting civil liberties and democratic values.
