Omoyele Sowore, a publisher and activist, has been listed as wanted by the Lagos State Police Command on suspicion of inciting public unrest and blocking important roadways throughout the state.
Olohundare Jimoh, the Commissioner of Police, reportedly made the remark on Monday while speaking to reporters at the Third Mainland Bridge’s Iyana-Oworo portion. He warned that the command would not put up with any attempt to disturb public order.
Jimoh claims that intelligence data showed that Sowore and his friends had planned simultaneous protests at key areas, such as Freedom Park, Lekki Tollgate, and the Third Mainland Bridge.
“Sowore should surrender at the closest police station or face arrest wherever he is found,” the Commissioner stated.
“Anyone who tries to obstruct our roads or cause disturbance will be subject to the full force of the law.”
The police commander called the planned protests “criminal” and warned that they could cause severe traffic jams and put lives in danger.
“It is only someone who needs examination that would attempt to block such a vital route used by thousands every day,” he continued.
Sowore on the Run, 13 Arrested
Sowore allegedly ran away before the raid started, but Jimoh revealed that 13 persons had already been detained in relation to the suspected protest plot.
“Sponsors and collaborators are being investigated,” he said.
He said that security personnel had been placed in strategic spots throughout Lagos, such as access gates, bridges, and highways, where temporary barriers and detours had been put in place to keep the peace.
It was not intended for the Third Mainland Bridge to support stationary weight. The Commissioner cautioned that any meeting on it could present structural dangers.
Speaking about the recent demolitions in some areas of Lagos, especially the Oworo-Soki neighborhood, Jimoh rejected allegations that the work was done without pay.
“The media saw the government compensate those impacted,” he stated. Creating a problem under the pretense of protest is never acceptable.
Residents were reassured by the police chief that there was no reason to be alarmed and that all security services had been fully mobilized to safeguard people and property.
“We don’t sleep. Jimoh declared, “We will capture, look into, and prosecute anyone trying to jeopardize public safety in Lagos.”
He reiterated the command’s dedication to upholding the law without fear or favor, stressing that although freedom of expression is permitted, it must not turn into lawlessness or a public annoyance.
