In a recent video from 1:42 shared on TV Platinum, on Friday, June 12, 2026, activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore spoke about his experience during the Democracy Day protest in Abuja, alleging that security operatives used force against demonstrators and exposed him to an unidentified chemical substance while he participated in the march.
Sowore described the incident as evidence of what he believes are growing restrictions on democratic freedoms in Nigeria. He argued that citizens exercising their constitutional right to peaceful protest should not face intimidation or physical harm from security agencies. According to him, the events of the day highlighted broader concerns about governance and civil liberties in the country.
Speaking during the protest, Sowore stated, “They poured a chemical I do not know directly into my nose, and I collapsed.” He made the remark while addressing supporters after recovering from the incident, insisting that the experience would not discourage him or other activists from continuing their advocacy.
According to Sowore, although he briefly lost consciousness after being exposed to the substance, the larger struggle for democratic accountability remains more important than any individual setback. He maintained that citizens must remain committed to demanding reforms regardless of the challenges they encounter during peaceful demonstrations.
He further argued that the significance of June 12 extends beyond commemorating Nigeria’s democratic history, saying it should also serve as a reminder of the need to safeguard the rights and freedoms that many Nigerians fought to secure. In his view, democracy can only thrive when citizens are free to express dissent without fear of repression.
Other participants at the protest echoed concerns about insecurity, economic hardship, and the rising cost of living. They called for stronger action to address kidnappings, violence, and other challenges affecting communities across the country, while emphasizing the importance of citizen engagement in the democratic process.
Sowore concluded by urging Nigerians not to be discouraged by obstacles or intimidation. He insisted that peaceful civic participation remains one of the most effective ways for citizens to hold leaders accountable and push for meaningful reforms aimed at improving governance, security, and living conditions nationwide