The AAC presidential candidate says his participation was to demonstrate solidarity with Palestinians and highlight Nigerians’ support for justice and human rights
Human rights activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has joined a pro-Palestinian protest in New York, United States, condemning Israel’s military campaign in Gaza.
Sowore disclosed his participation in a post on his verified X account on Friday, September 25, saying he joined the demonstration to express solidarity with Palestinians and demand justice.
“Yes, today in New York, I joined the Free Palestine protest. No justice, no peace! #FreePalestine!” Sowore wrote.
“I condemn the genocide being committed by the state of Israel in Gaza.
“I joined to make it clear that Nigerians stand for justice and human rights for Palestinians.”
His participation came amid a series of pro-Palestinian demonstrations in New York as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the city to address the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
Protests intensify around UN headquarters
Several demonstrations were held in New York on Thursday, September 24, as Netanyahu delivered his UNGA address.
According to Al Jazeera, more than 400 people, including activists, politicians and celebrities, participated in a sit-in near the United Nations headquarters organised by Jewish Voice for Peace (JVP) and the New York City chapter of Democratic Socialists of America.
The protesters blocked part of First Avenue and called for accountability over Israel’s conduct in Gaza, while also demanding an end to US military support for Israel.
Police ordered protesters to clear the road before making arrests. The New York Police Department told Al Jazeera that 103 people were arrested for disorderly conduct and subsequently released.
Organisers said nine of those arrested were elected officials or candidates for public office. Among those detained were congressional candidate Darializa Avila Chevalier and New York City Council member Chi Osse, while actors Susan Sarandon and Hannah Einbinder were also reported among those arrested.
Thousands march against Netanyahu
Later on Thursday, thousands of demonstrators marched towards the UN headquarters in a separate protest organised by the Palestinian Youth Movement and The People’s Forum.
The demonstrations brought the Gaza war and US support for Israel to the streets of New York while Netanyahu defended his government’s conduct from the UNGA podium.
The protesters’ demands included greater international accountability over the war and an end to US military assistance to Israel.
Netanyahu rejected accusations that Israel had committed genocide in Gaza during his UN address, describing the allegation as the “greatest lie of the century” and saying Israel had taken steps to protect Palestinian civilians.
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