Presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, was caught in a teargas incident during a Democracy Day protest in Abuja on Friday.
The protest, organised by a coalition of civil society groups, labour activists and youth organisations, was held to draw attention to concerns over insecurity, economic hardship and the rising cost of living in Nigeria.
Tension reportedly escalated near the Force Headquarters in Abuja when security operatives moved to disperse protesters. Videos circulating on social media showed demonstrators fleeing the area as teargas engulfed parts of the protest venue.
Sowore was seen on the ground during the incident as fellow protesters rushed to assist him. In several videos, supporters were observed fanning him and helping him into a vehicle as he recovered from the effects of the teargas.
The coalition behind the nationwide demonstration had earlier declared June 12 a day of mass mobilisation, urging Nigerians to demand improved governance and better living conditions.
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