A protest in Abuja marking Democracy Day turned tense on Friday after operatives of the Nigeria Police Force reportedly fired teargas at demonstrators, including activist Omoyele Sowore.

The incident occurred around Eagle Square as protesters marched from the Berger area, demanding action on insecurity, the release of abducted schoolchildren, and improved governance. The demonstration formed part of a nationwide mobilisation by civic groups on Democracy Day.

Eyewitness video showed demonstrators dispersing after teargas canisters were fired at close range. Sowore was later seen being assisted by other protesters while struggling for breath, before collapsing at the scene.

Sowore alleged that police deployed what he described as “strange gas” at close range, claiming it entered his lungs and left him unable to breathe during the confrontation.

He further stated that the incident reflected what he described as intensified tactics to suppress dissent during public demonstrations.

In a statement posted on X, he accused authorities of using force to intimidate citizens exercising constitutional rights. He also linked the incident to broader concerns about governance and public order.

The Amnesty International condemned the reported use of force, describing it as a “reckless attack” on peaceful protesters. It called for an investigation into what it said was the targeting of activists during the demonstration.

At the time of reporting, the Nigeria Police Force had not issued an official response to the incident.