The Lagos State Police Command has declared human rights activist and Sahara Reporters publisher, Omoyele Sowore, wanted for allegedly planning to incite public unrest and obstruct major roads across the state.
The Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, made this known on Monday, October 3, while briefing journalists at the Iyana-Oworo section of the Third Mainland Bridge.
According to him, the command received intelligence suggesting that Sowore and his associates were coordinating plans to stage simultaneous demonstrations 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 organizing activities aimed at disrupting public peace. Sowore is advised to surrender at the nearest police station or risk arrest wherever he is found,” he said.
He warned that any attempt to block major roads or provoke unrest would be met with firm action.
“Anyone attempting to cause disturbances or obstruct our roads will face the full weight of the law. Only someone who requires examination would attempt to block such a critical route used daily by thousands,” he added.
Jimoh revealed that 13 suspects linked to the planned protest had already been arrested, while Sowore had reportedly fled. He noted that investigations were underway to identify sponsors and collaborators.
To avert disruptions, he said officers had been deployed to strategic locations across the city—particularly major bridges and highways—where temporary roadblocks and diversions had been set up.
“The Third Mainland Bridge was not designed to hold stationary weight. Any gathering on it could pose structural dangers,” he explained.
Addressing public concerns over recent demolitions in Lagos, particularly in the Oworo-Soki area, Jimoh maintained that affected residents had been duly compensated.
“The government compensated those impacted, and the media witnessed it. There is no justification to stir unrest under the guise of protest,” he stated.
The Commissioner assured residents of their safety and encouraged them to go about their daily activities without fear.
“We are fully alert. We will apprehend, investigate, and prosecute anyone attempting to compromise public safety in Lagos,” he vowed.
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