Police Fire Teargas at Abuja Protesters, Sowore Among Those Affected

A peaceful protest in Abuja turned chaotic on Friday after police officers fired teargas at demonstrators marching toward Eagle Square, leaving several people struggling to breathe, including human rights activist Omoyele Sowore.

The protesters had assembled at Berger Bus Stop before proceeding toward the Federal Secretariat to demand urgent action over the worsening security situation in the country, the release of abducted schoolchildren, and what they described as poor governance.

Tension escalated as the demonstrators approached the Eagle Square area, where heavily armed security personnel had been stationed. Witnesses said security operatives fired teargas canisters into the crowd, forcing protesters, journalists, and passersby to flee for safety.

Sowore, one of the protest leaders and a former presidential candidate, was among those affected by the teargas. Witnesses said he experienced breathing difficulties after inhaling the fumes when a canister was reportedly discharged at close range.

Individuals around him quickly moved him away from the scene and attempted to assist him. However, confusion intensified when another round of teargas was allegedly fired while he was receiving attention, causing protesters to disperse in different directions.

The incident triggered panic in the area, with many commuters abandoning their routes as teargas spread across nearby roads.

Despite the disruption, the demonstrators later regrouped and continued their march, insisting that their protest remained peaceful. They maintained that they would not be intimidated by security agencies.

Speaking with journalists after the incident, Sowore said Nigerians must continue to demand accountability from their leaders and exercise their constitutional right to peaceful assembly and protest.

The demonstration comes amid growing public concern over rising insecurity and increasing cases of kidnapping across parts of the country. Protesters called on the government to take urgent steps to secure the release of abducted schoolchildren and strengthen the nation's security framework.