The Lagos State Police Command has declared activist Omoyele Sowore ‘wanted’ for allegedly planning to incite public disorder and obstruct major roads in the state.
Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh disclosed this to newsmen yesterday in the Iyana-Oworo section of the Third Mainland Bridge, saying the Command was closing in on Sowore and others accused of coordinating activities intended to disrupt public peace.
“Sowore should surrender at the nearest police station or face arrest wherever he is found. Anyone attempting to cause disturbance or block our roads will face the full weight of the law”, he stated.
According to him, intelligence reports indicated that Sowore and his associates planned to stage demonstrations at strategic locations, including the 3rd Mainland Bridge, Lekki Tollgate, as well as Freedom Park.
The Commissioner described the alleged plan as criminal and warned it could trigger severe traffic congestion and endanger lives. “It is only someone who needs examination that would attempt to block such a vital route used by thousands daily”, he said.
Jimoh revealed that 13 suspects had been arrested in connection with the planned protest, while Sowore allegedly fled. He added that investigations are ongoing to identify sponsors and collaborators.
The CP said officers had been deployed across key areas, especially major bridges and highways, where roadblocks and diversions were in place.
He noted that the measures were temporary and aimed at safeguarding peace and protecting critical infrastructure. “The Third Mainland Bridge was not designed to hold stationary weight. Any gathering on it could pose structural risks”, he stated.
The Commissioner also addressed tension linked to recent demolitions in parts of Lagos, particularly in the Oworonsoki area, stating that eligible residents had already received compensation.
Jimoh reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to enforcing the law without fear or favour, stressing that freedom of expression must not turn into a public nuisance or risk lives.
