By Ayomide Otitoju
The Lagos State Police Command has declared human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, wanted over his alleged involvement in protests against recent building demolitions in the Oworonshoki area of the state.
Police accused Sowore of attempting to incite unrest, warning that the demonstrations could paralyse major roads and disrupt public order.
Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, announced this while briefing journalists on Monday at the Iyana-Oworo axis of the Third Mainland Bridge.
According to CP Jimoh, intelligence reports linked Sowore and his associates to plans for coordinated protests at key locations including the Third Mainland Bridge, Lekki Tollgate, and Freedom Park.
“The command is closing in on Mr. Sowore and others accused of coordinating activities intended to disrupt public peace. Sowore should surrender at the nearest police station or face arrest wherever he is found,” Jimoh stated.
He cautioned that any attempt to block major roads or incite unrest would attract firm police response. “Anyone attempting to cause disturbance or block our roads will face the full weight of the law,” he said. “It is only someone who needs examination that would attempt to block such a vital route used by thousands daily.”
Jimoh revealed that 13 suspects had already been arrested in connection with the planned protest, while Sowore was said to have gone into hiding. He added that investigations were ongoing to identify sponsors and collaborators.
To forestall disruption, police have deployed officers to strategic locations across Lagos, including major bridges and highways, with temporary roadblocks and diversions in place.
“The Third Mainland Bridge was not designed to hold stationary weight. Any gathering on it could pose structural risks,” the Commissioner explained.
Addressing rising tensions over the demolitions, Jimoh stated that affected Oworonshoki residents had been duly compensated. “The government compensated those affected, and the media witnessed it. There is no justification to provoke a crisis under the guise of protest,” he said.
He assured residents of their safety, emphasizing that the command would continue to maintain law and order. “We are not sleeping. We will apprehend, investigate, and prosecute anyone attempting to undermine public safety in Lagos,” he vowed.
Reaffirming the command’s stance, CP Jimoh stressed that while citizens have the right to free expression, it must not endanger others. “Freedom of expression must not turn into public nuisance or risk lives. The police will enforce the law without fear or favour to preserve peace and protect critical infrastructure,” he added.
