The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, has justified his decision to declare activist and publisher of Sahara Reporters, Omoyele Sowore, wanted, saying the action was taken within his constitutional authority to prevent a breakdown of law and order in the state.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Wednesday, Jimoh said the police acted after monitoring statements allegedly made by Sowore suggesting plans to mobilise protesters to block the Third Mainland Bridge.
“I have the right to declare him wanted. Anyone who says I don’t have such a right can go to court,” the commissioner said.
According to him, security operatives moved to forestall what he described as a potentially violent protest, which led to the arrest of 13 suspected participants and the seizure of a vehicle equipped with loudspeakers and a generator meant for the demonstration.
“We cordoned off the area he had indicated and ensured that alternative routes were provided for the public,” Jimoh explained.
He stressed that his actions were guided by the need to protect lives and property and prevent disruptions in Lagos.
“I have the right under the Constitution to prevent crime and stop anyone from throwing the state into chaos,” he said.
Jimoh, however, denied claims that the Inspector-General of Police ordered Sowore’s arrest or issued any “shoot-at-sight” directive.
“The IGP did not give such an order. There has never been such a directive,” he stated.
Sowore, reacting earlier, rejected the police declaration, arguing that no officer has the power to declare a citizen wanted without a court order.
He described the action as illegal and politically motivated.
The controversy began on November 3 when the Lagos police announced Sowore as wanted for alleged actions capable of disrupting public peace.
