Human rights activist and publisher of Sahara Reporters, , has alleged that operatives of the Nigeria Police Force deployed a chemical substance against protesters during the June 12 Democracy Day demonstration in Abuja, leaving him temporarily unable to breathe.
In a statement following the protest, Sowore claimed that police officers released what he described as a “strange gas” at close range, which entered his lungs and caused severe breathing difficulties before he eventually collapsed.
According to him, the incident reflects what he described as increasingly aggressive measures being used against citizens participating in peaceful protests and exercising their constitutional rights to freedom of expression and assembly.
The activist further alleged that the action formed part of broader efforts to intimidate and suppress dissenting voices critical of government policies and the prevailing socio-economic situation in the country.
The June 12 protests were organised in several states across Nigeria by civil society organisations, pro-democracy groups, youth movements, and activists demanding action on insecurity, economic hardship, hunger, unemployment, and the rising cost of living.
At the time of reporting, the Nigeria Police Force had not publicly responded to the allegations regarding the alleged use of a chemical agent against protesters in Abuja.
The development has generated renewed debate about the conduct of security agencies during public demonstrations and the protection of democratic rights in Nigeria.
