By The Metro 
A peaceful protest in Abuja descended into chaos on Friday after police officers fired teargas at demonstrators during a march towards Eagle Square.
The protesters had gathered at Berger Bus Stop before moving towards the Federal Secretariat to demand action over worsening insecurity, the release of abducted school children and what they described as poor governance in the country.
Tension escalated as the crowd approached the Eagle Square axis, where security operatives had been deployed. Witnesses said teargas canisters were fired into the gathering, forcing protesters, journalists and passersby to flee for safety.
Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore was among those affected and was reportedly hit by teargas at close range, causing him to struggle for breath after inhaling the fumes.
People nearby quickly moved him away from the scene and tried to assist him. However, confusion increased when another round of teargas was allegedly fired while he was still receiving attention, causing protesters to scatter in different directions.
The incident triggered panic in the area, with commuters abandoning their routes as teargas spread across nearby roads.
Despite the disruption, the protesters later regrouped and continued their march. They insisted the demonstration remained peaceful and said they would not be intimidated by security agencies.
Speaking with journalists after the incident, Sowore said Nigerians have the constitutional right to peacefully demand accountability from those in leadership. He also called for urgent action to address hardship and insecurity in the country.
The protest comes amid growing concerns over insecurity and rising kidnapping cases across several parts of Nigeria.
Demonstrators urged the government to secure the release of abducted school children and strengthen the nation’s security system.