The Lagos State Police Command has declared activist Omoyele Sowore wanted for allegedly plotting to incite public disorder and obstruct major roads across the state.
Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, made the announcement on Monday while addressing journalists at the Iyana-Oworo section of the Third Mainland Bridge. He said the command was closing in on Sowore and other suspected collaborators accused of coordinating activities aimed at disrupting 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,” Jimoh warned.
According to him, intelligence reports revealed that Sowore and his associates planned to stage demonstrations at strategic locations such as the Third Mainland Bridge, Lekki Tollgate, and Freedom Park. The commissioner described the alleged plot as “reckless and criminal,” warning that it could paralyse traffic flow and endanger lives.
“It is only someone who needs examination that would attempt to block such a vital route used by thousands daily,” Jimoh stated.
He disclosed that 13 suspects had already been arrested in connection with the planned protest, while Sowore allegedly fled. Investigations, he added, were ongoing to identify possible sponsors and accomplices.
The commissioner confirmed that security operatives had been deployed to key areas, including bridges and highways, with temporary roadblocks and diversions introduced to prevent unrest. “These measures are only temporary and are designed to safeguard lives and protect critical infrastructure,” he said.
Jimoh further explained that the Third Mainland Bridge was not structurally designed to bear stationary crowds, warning that any gathering there could pose serious safety risks.
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He also addressed growing public tension following recent demolitions in some parts of Lagos, particularly the Oworo-Soki area, noting that those affected had been duly compensated. “The government compensated those affected, and the media witnessed it. There is no justification to provoke crisis under the guise of protest,” he added.
Reassuring residents of their safety, the commissioner urged the public to continue their daily activities without fear, emphasizing that security agencies were fully mobilised to maintain peace. “We are not sleeping. We will apprehend, investigate, and prosecute anyone attempting to undermine public safety in Lagos,” he said.
Jimoh reaffirmed that while the police respect citizens’ right to free expression, such freedom must not be abused to endanger lives or create public disorder.
