FEATURE… Protest Against Adversity: How the widespread use of tear gas impacts health, the environment

As Nigerians begin mass protests against economic hardship, there is a serious issue that demands our attention: the danger and pollution caused by the police’s widespread use of tear gas.

In our attempt to solve one problem, we must avoid creating new ones!

Starting on August 1, 2024, young people across Nigeria took to the streets to speak truth to power, driven by the high cost of living that has left many struggling to meet basic needs such as food.

However, in an attempt to control the protests and maintain order, police have resorted to using large amounts of tear gas. This approach has sparked new health problems and caused environmental damage.

On Thursday, there were reports of several tear gas shells being fired in the Federal Capital Territory Abuja against peaceful protesters. Borno, Kaduna, Kano. Several other locations where protests were hijacked by hoodlums, resulting in damage to property, have also been tear gassed.

“When we demonstrated yesterday, when we arrived at Eagles Square, we tried to organize ourselves, but suddenly the police didn’t talk to us, they didn’t even greet us, they just started shooting tear gas.

“Instead of shooting tear gas into the sky, they turned it directly towards us, as if they were at war. They used up all the tear gas and another group of MoPol came from behind to continue the action,” complained a protester, Ademola, whose face was badly injured after being hit by a tear gas canister.

The widespread use of tear gas has raised concerns among environmental and health experts, highlighting a problem that requires serious attention.

Journalist Mary Adeboye, who was covering a News Central Television event, was also injured while covering the protests in Abuja. “We tried to move from where they fired the tear gas. I was not facing the police, and I wanted to move to the other side. As I was moving, I saw the police who fired the tear gas, and the gas hit my leg. In fact, my leg is still hurting and I can’t walk now,” she said.

More than physical injuries: tear gas and environmental damage

Tear gas consists of substances that are used to incapacitate people in a non-lethal manner. The three most commonly used substances are o-chlorobenzylidenemalononitrile (CS), chloroacetophenone (CN), and oleoresin capsicum (OC). These chemicals can cause significant environmental damage. When released, they spread through the air, soil, and water.

In urban centers like Lagos, Abuja, and Kano, tear gas particles can linger and affect residents long after protests have ended. They can cause immediate irritation to the eyes, throat, and skin, and can cause breathing difficulties for those who inhale them.

Also Read: Breaking News: Police fire tear gas at protesters in Eagle Square

While the effects of tear gas usually subside 15-30 minutes after a person leaves the exposure area and cleans themselves up, long-term exposure can result in serious health problems, including respiratory problems and skin damage.

Tragically, video footage from the protest site showed police officers walking through the haze without adequate protective gear, putting themselves at risk.

Unfortunately, nearby homes will be affected, especially children, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions.

Call for Better Solutions

Experts have recently urged police to find safer methods of crowd control. “The impact of tear gas on our environment and health is very serious. We need to find a method that is non-toxic and does not harm people,” a doctor said in a recent video.

Here are some other alternatives that our Police can use to ensure protests remain peaceful:

1. Non-lethal equipment such as foam batons, sound cannons, or paint markers can help control crowds without causing lasting harm.

2. Loudspeaker systems can be used to communicate with protesters, reduce misunderstandings and maintain order.

3. Physical barriers can also be used to regulate the flow of protesters and prevent them from entering restricted areas without using violence.

This alternative is more sustainable than the use of tear gas.

As we live in these challenging times, it is critical that we consider the broader impacts of tear gas pollution. Solutions that protect people and the environment must be prioritized.

Addressing one problem should not make another worse. If we focus on using tear gas to disperse protesters, we risk long-term health and environmental consequences.

It is crucial for Nigerian police and protesters to understand the broader implications of the current format. Sustainablea health-conscious approach must be prioritized to ensure everyone’s safety.

We call on Nigeria’s leaders to show strength and wisdom during these times, as their actions are critical in safeguarding the well-being of our people and preserving our environment.

FEATURE post… Protests over Hardship: How widespread use of tear gas is impacting health and the environment appeared first on Latest Nigeria News | Headlines from Ripples Nigeria.