Police officers from the Nigeria Police Force utilized tear gas canisters to disperse protesters congregated at the National Assembly in Abuja, who were advocating for comprehensive electoral reform.
Notable figures such as activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore and former minister Solomon Dalung were among those who gathered in front of the National Assembly to call for reforms aimed at enhancing electoral transparency ahead of the 2027 general elections. In response, the police resorted to using tear gas to clear the crowd.
Following the deployment of tear gas, Sowore addressed the media, condemning the police's actions as a violent attack on peaceful protesters and labeling it an affront to democratic ideals.
He reported that several demonstrators experienced collapses due to the effects of the tear gas and urged citizens to mobilize in support of electoral integrity and civil rights.
"This has now escalated into a complete declaration of war on Nigerians. It is an assault on democracy…for the first time, the police are using compressed gas canisters against their own citizens. Over two individuals have collapsed as a result. This will not be tolerated. We implore Nigerians to come to the National Assembly," stated Sowore.
The protesters presented several critical demands, including the implementation of real-time electronic transmission of election results, the reinstatement of a 360-day statutory period for issuing election notifications, and increased penalties for vote buying.
They emphasized that these measures are essential for improving transparency, ensuring better preparations by electoral participants, and restoring public trust in the electoral process.
Even after the protesters were dispersed, the organizing leaders maintained that the public would persist in advocating for their demands. They urged representatives in the National Assembly's Conference Committee to prioritize the public interest and enhance the integrity of electoral procedures.
A video capturing the scene of protesters fleeing for safety amidst the tear gas canisters is available for viewing below.
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