Society Editor
By Tolu Adesuwa Igiehon
The Lagos State Police Command has declared human rights activist and Sahara Reporters publisher, Omoyele Sowore, wanted over allegations that he masterminded a plan to disrupt public peace and obstruct movement across major roads in the state.
Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, made the announcement on Monday, November 3, during a media briefing at the Iyana-Oworo axis of the Third Mainland Bridge.
According to Jimoh, intelligence reports revealed that Sowore and some associates were allegedly coordinating a series of protests to take place simultaneously at key locations in Lagos, including the Third Mainland Bridge, Lekki Tollgate, and Freedom Park.
“We have credible intelligence that Mr. Sowore and his cohorts are planning to instigate public disorder under the pretext of a protest. The command is closing in on him and other suspects. He is hereby advised to surrender at the nearest police station or risk being arrested wherever he may be found,” the Commissioner said.
Jimoh warned that the police would not tolerate any action capable of causing chaos or obstructing the free flow of traffic in the state, especially on vital routes used by thousands of commuters daily.
“Any attempt to block major roads or incite unrest will be met with firm resistance. The law will take its full course against anyone found guilty of such acts. It is sheer recklessness to obstruct essential transport routes like the Third Mainland Bridge,” he stated.
The Commissioner confirmed that 13 suspects have already been arrested in connection with the alleged plot, while Sowore reportedly evaded arrest. Ongoing investigations, he said, are aimed at uncovering other accomplices and potential sponsors behind the plan.
To forestall possible disruptions, Jimoh disclosed that police operatives have been stationed at strategic locations, including bridges, tollgates, and other public spaces across Lagos. Temporary checkpoints and diversions have also been set up to maintain law and order.
“The Third Mainland Bridge was never designed to bear stationary crowds. Any gathering there could compromise its structural safety and endanger lives,” Jimoh explained.
He also addressed mounting public anxiety linked to recent demolition exercises in the Oworo-Soki area, clarifying that affected residents had already received government compensation.
“The Lagos State Government has compensated all verified victims, and the process was documented by the media. There’s no justification for anyone to provoke violence under the guise of protest,” he said.
Jimoh reassured Lagosians of their safety, urging them to go about their daily activities without fear.
“We are on top of the situation. The command will arrest, investigate, and prosecute anyone involved in attempts to destabilize peace and security in Lagos,” he vowed.
