By Peace Udugba
Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, was reportedly rushed to an undisclosed hospital after collapsing during a protest in Abuja on Friday.
According to reports, Sowore suddenly fell to the ground and began gasping for air after police officers allegedly fired teargas to disperse demonstrators.
The protest was organized in response to the worsening security situation across the country, following a series of attacks and killings recorded in several parts of Nigeria in recent weeks.
Eyewitnesses said the demonstration began peacefully but turned chaotic when security operatives moved to prevent protesters from advancing beyond a restricted area.
Sources at the scene said several protesters fled for safety as teargas canisters were fired. Sowore, who was among those leading the protest, was reportedly severely affected by the fumes.
“He collapsed shortly after the teargas was fired. People around him quickly rushed to help him before he was taken away for medical attention,” an eyewitness said.
Videos circulating online showed a tense atmosphere at the protest venue, with demonstrators confronting security operatives while others hurriedly left the area.
As of the time of filing this report, Sowore’s condition had not been officially confirmed. The police had also yet to issue a statement on the incident.
The development comes amid growing public concern over rising insecurity nationwide, with citizens and civil society groups calling on the Federal Government to take urgent steps to protect lives and property.
