Sowore Collapses Amid Chaos as Police Disperse Democracy Day Protest in Abuja

Activist and African Action Congress (AAC) 2027 presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, reportedly collapsed on Friday during a Democracy Day protest in Abuja after security operatives allegedly fired teargas at demonstrators gathered near the Force Headquarters.

The protest was part of a nationwide mobilisation organised by a coalition of civil society groups, labour activists, youth organisations and social movements. The groups had declared June 12 a day of mass action to draw attention to growing insecurity, economic hardship and the rising cost of living across the country.

The coalition’s call for the protest was contained in a joint statement endorsed by human rights lawyer Femi Falana, Committee for the Defence of Human Rights President Yinka Folarin, #EndBadGovernance Movement organiser Hassan Soweto, and musician Falz.

Tension reportedly escalated when security personnel moved to disperse the protesters with teargas. Videos circulating on social media showed Sowore lying on the ground as fellow protesters rushed to assist him.

In one of the videos shared online, demonstrators were seen attempting to revive him by fanning him with placards while expressing concern over his condition.

“Them don start. Police are already shooting. Sowore don faint ohh. Nigeria police,” some protesters were heard shouting in the footage.

Sowore was later helped into a vehicle and appeared to be recovering. While leaving the scene, he was seen covering his nose with a red handkerchief. When asked about his condition, he responded that he was stable.

Other videos from the protest showed confusion among participants as security operatives continued efforts to disperse the gathering.

As of the time of filing this report, there was no official statement from the police regarding the incident, while the full extent of Sowore’s condition remained unclear.