A peaceful protest turned chaotic at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abuja on Friday when police officers fired tear gas to disperse demonstrators, causing a female protester to collapse.
Eyewitnesses reported that the police fired multiple rounds of tear gas, forcing most protesters to flee.
However, two determined individuals remained, defying the health risks to assist the collapsed woman.
“We couldn’t leave her there,” said one of the protesters who stayed behind. “She needed immediate medical attention.”
The woman has since been transported to the hospital for treatment. Her current condition remains unknown.
This incident marks the latest in a series of clashes between law enforcement and demonstrators in Nigeria’s capital. On both Thursday and Friday, police repeatedly used tear gas to break up gatherings, seemingly unconcerned about potential health consequences.
Despite these aggressive tactics, protest organizers remain undeterred. They have pledged to continue their daily demonstrations as part of a planned “10 days of rage” campaign.
“We will not be silenced,” declared a spokesperson for the protest movement. “Our voices must be heard.”
The use of tear gas to disperse peaceful protesters has become increasingly common across Nigeria, raising concerns about citizens’ right to freedom of assembly and expression.
As tensions continue to mount, many are calling for a reevaluation of police tactics and a more measured approach to crowd control during peaceful demonstrations.
The hashtag #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria has gained traction on social media, with supporters demanding accountability and reform in the wake of these events.