The Lagos State Police Command has declared human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, wanted for allegedly planning a protest that authorities say could obstruct major highways and threaten public safety.
Commissioner of Police in the state, Olohundare Jimoh, announced the development on Monday while addressing journalists near the Iyana-Oworo end of the Third Mainland Bridge.
He alleged that Sowore ignored warnings not to mobilise demonstrations over the recent demolition of structures in the Oworonshoki area.
“We are closing in on Sowore and others coordinating acts aimed at disturbing public peace,” Jimoh said.
“He should report to the nearest police station immediately, or he will be arrested wherever he is found.”
According to the Commissioner, intelligence reports indicated that the protest organisers planned to stage simultaneous gatherings at Third Mainland Bridge, Lekki Tollgate, and Freedom Park, actions he described as “criminal and capable of causing severe traffic disruption.”
Jimoh stressed that attempts to block strategic public roads would not be tolerated, “Anyone who attempts to obstruct these national routes will face the full weight of the law. The Third Mainland Bridge was not designed to carry stationary crowds. Such an act is dangerous and irresponsible.”
He confirmed that 13 people linked to the planned protest had already been arrested, adding that the police were investigating possible financiers and collaborators.
The Commissioner also stated that security personnel had been stationed at major highways and bridges, with temporary checkpoints and diversions in place to prevent a breakdown of order.
On the demolition exercise that triggered the protest call, Jimoh insisted that compensation was provided to affected residents, “Those whose homes were impacted have received compensation, and the process was transparent. There is no justification for any individual or group to incite unrest under the guise of protest.”
He urged Lagosians to go about their daily activities without fear, assuring that security agencies were monitoring the situation, “We are fully alert. Anyone attempting to undermine public safety in Lagos will be apprehended, investigated, and prosecuted. Freedom of expression must not be transformed into a public nuisance.”
Sowore, who leads the “Take It Back Movement,” had earlier criticised the demolitions and vowed to mobilise affected residents for a public demonstration. The police, however, had warned against the action.
Investigations into the alleged plan are ongoing.
