Armed policemen on Friday fired teargas at protesters marching towards Eagle Square in Abuja to demand urgent action on rising insecurity, the release of abducted schoolchildren and improved governance.
The protest, which began at the popular Berger Bus Stop, was heading towards the Federal Secretariat, where the protesters planned to present their demands to the Federal Government.
However, the demonstration was disrupted as security operatives stationed around Eagle Square fired teargas canisters at the crowd as they approached the area.
According to Sahara Reporters, human rights activist and protest leader, Omoyele Sowore, was among those affected after he was allegedly hit with teargas at close range.
He reportedly inhaled the fumes and had difficulty breathing, prompting fellow protesters to quickly move him away from the scene and provide assistance.
The police later fired another round of teargas while Sowore was receiving attention, causing panic among protesters and commuters in the area.
Despite the disruption, the protesters later regrouped and continued their march.
They vowed not to be intimidated by what they described as harassment by security operatives.
Addressing journalists after the incident, Sowore said Nigerians must be liberated from what he described as the shackles of oppressors.
The protesters maintained that the government must act decisively to tackle insecurity and secure the release of abducted schoolchildren.
