Abuja, Nigeria – Tension erupted at the Unity Fountain in Abuja on Thursday after human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, reportedly collapsed during a Democracy Day protest following a confrontation with security operatives.
Sowore was among dozens of demonstrators who gathered at the popular protest ground to express concerns over rising insecurity, worsening economic conditions, and what they described as poor governance in the country.
Eyewitnesses said the situation escalated when police officers moved to disperse the protesters. Security personnel reportedly fired tear gas canisters into the crowd in an effort to break up the demonstration, causing panic among participants.
Amid the chaos, Sowore allegedly collapsed, prompting immediate concern from supporters and fellow protesters at the scene.
Sources close to the activist confirmed that he was subsequently taken to an undisclosed medical facility for further examination and treatment.
As of the time of filing this report, there was no official statement from the police regarding the incident, while details of Sowore’s condition remained unclear.
The Democracy Day protest was organised to draw attention to issues including insecurity, economic hardship, and demands for improved governance across the country.
