The African Action Congress has raised serious alarm over what it described as an alleged assassination attempt on its presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, following incidents that occurred during the June 12 Democracy Day protest in Abuja.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Rex I. Elanu, and issued on June 15, 2026, the party alleged that Sowore was attacked by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force during a peaceful demonstration organized by the Take It Back Movement alongside other civil society groups.
According to the AAC, police operatives allegedly sprayed an unknown aerosol-based chemical directly into Sowore’s face, causing him to collapse and temporarily lose consciousness.
The party described the incident as “deeply alarming,” warning that it reflects a growing pattern of repression against opposition voices and civic activists in the country.
AAC further referenced historical parallels, citing the late Senate President Chuba Okadigbo and his exposure to tear gas during a political rally in 2003, which it said remains a grim reminder of the dangers faced by opposition figures in Nigeria’s democratic space.
The statement also outlined what it called a sustained pattern of attacks against Sowore over the years, including alleged physical assaults, confrontations with security operatives, courtroom disruptions involving the Department of State Services, and previous injuries sustained during protests.
The party insisted that despite repeated incidents, Sowore has continued to face what it termed politically motivated harassment and “lawfare,” including prosecutions and restrictions aimed at silencing dissent.
AAC also accused the current political climate under the administration of Bola Tinubu of worsening the environment for opposition figures and civil liberties.
It warned that Nigeria risks sliding into a dangerous phase where critics of government policies are increasingly intimidated and targeted.
The party called on the international community, human rights organizations, and democratic governments to urgently monitor the situation and take steps to ensure Sowore’s safety.
It further warned that continued inaction could embolden further attacks against activists and opposition leaders.
Reaffirming its commitment to its political struggle, the AAC stated that no amount of intimidation or violence would deter it from its demand for justice, freedom, and democratic accountability, adding that its next steps would depend largely on global response to the allegations.