By Nchetachi Chukuwajah
The Lago State Police Command on Monday, November 3, declared activist, Omoyele Sowore, wanted after he led a protest against the demolition of structures at Oworonshoki by the Lago State government.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, Moshood Jimoh, said Sowore was declared wanted for allegedly planning to incite public disorder and obstructing major roads in the state.
Speaking with journalists on Monday at the Iyana-Oworo section of the Third Mainland Bridge, Jimoh said the command was closing in on Sowore and others accused of coordinating activities intended to disrupt public peace.
He said, “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.”
The police commissioner also said intelligence reports indicated that Sowore and his associates planned to stage demonstrations at strategic locations, including the Third Mainland Bridge, Lekki Tollgate, and Freedom Park.
He said the alleged plan was criminal, saying it could lead to traffic congestion and endanger lives as thousands of commuters ply the routes daily.
“It is only someone who needs examination that would attempt to block such a vital route used by thousands daily.
“The Third Mainland Bridge was not designed to hold stationary weight. Any gathering on it could pose structural risks,” he said.
Jimoh further stated that the police have arrested 13 suspects in connection with the planned protest, while Sowore allegedly fled, adding that investigations are ongoing to identify sponsors and collaborators.
Jimoh 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.
On the allegations of non-compensation of residents of areas recently demolished in parts of Lagos, particularly in the Oworonshoki area, he said that eligible residents had already received compensation.
“The government compensated those affected, and the media witnessed it. There is no justification to provoke a crisis under the guise of protest,” he said.
He urged Lagos residents to continue their normal activities without fear, assuring that security agencies were fully deployed to maintain order.
“We are not sleeping. We will apprehend, investigate, and prosecute anyone attempting to undermine public safety in Lagos,” he said.
Meanwhile, Sowore has responded to the report declaring him wanted, saying. he’s going to meet the CP as he is not picking his calls.
“Despite my repeated attempts to contact Nigeria Police Force Commissioner Jimoh, he has not taken my calls. Nevertheless, I plan to meet with him soon to address his declaration,” Sowore said.
