Amnesty International has condemned the Nigerian authorities’ handling of Democracy Day protests in Abuja after security forces dispersed demonstrators with tear gas, leaving activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore hospitalised.
The rights group described the police action as an “unlawful crackdown” on peaceful protesters, urging the government to respect citizens’ constitutional rights to freedom of assembly and expression.
The protest, held in the Nigerian capital on Thursday, drew demonstrators demanding action over worsening insecurity, economic hardship and governance challenges. Witnesses said police fired tear gas canisters as protesters approached the Eagle Square area, forcing many to flee.
Sowore, who led the march, was reportedly overwhelmed by the effects of the tear gas and was rushed to hospital after experiencing breathing difficulties during the confrontation. Reports said he later received medical attention, although officials had not released any statement on his condition at the time of reporting. L
In a statement, Amnesty International criticised what it called the excessive use of force against peaceful demonstrators, insisting that security agencies have a duty to facilitate, rather than suppress, lawful protests. The organisation called for an investigation into the incident and urged authorities to uphold human rights protections guaranteed under Nigerian law and international conventions.
The incident has renewed concerns among civil society groups over the shrinking civic space in Nigeria, with activists warning that the use of force against peaceful protesters undermines democratic freedoms on a day dedicated to celebrating the country’s return to civilian rule.
