Lagos Police Declare Omoyele Sowore Wanted over Planned Protests

The Lagos State Police Command has declared activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore wanted for allegedly planning to instigate public unrest and obstruct major roads across the state. The announcement was made on Monday by the State Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, while briefing journalists at the Iyana-Oworo section of the Third Mainland Bridge.

According to Jimoh, Sowore, who leads the “Take It Back Movement,” ignored previous warnings from the police not to mobilise protests over the recent demolition of houses in the Oworonshoki area. The commissioner warned that Sowore should surrender at the nearest police station or risk arrest wherever he is found, emphasizing the command’s commitment to maintaining public order.

Jimoh revealed that intelligence reports indicated Sowore and his associates were planning simultaneous demonstrations at strategic locations, including the Third Mainland Bridge, Lekki Tollgate, and Freedom Park. He described the alleged plan as “criminal,” stressing that it could cause severe traffic disruptions and endanger lives. “It is only someone who needs examination that would attempt to block such a vital route used by thousands daily,” the commissioner said.

Thirteen suspects connected to the planned protests have already been arrested, while Sowore allegedly fled. The police confirmed that investigations are ongoing to uncover individuals or groups sponsoring and coordinating the planned demonstrations. Officers have been deployed across major highways and bridges, with temporary roadblocks and diversions set up to prevent disruptions.

Highlighting the potential dangers of such gatherings, Jimoh pointed out that the Third Mainland Bridge was not designed to hold stationary crowds, warning that demonstrations on the bridge could pose structural risks. He also addressed concerns surrounding the demolitions in Oworonshoki, noting that affected residents had been compensated and that media outlets had witnessed the process. “There is no justification to provoke a crisis under the guise of protest,” he said.

The commissioner urged Lagos residents to continue their daily activities without fear, assuring them that the police and other security agencies were closely monitoring the situation. He reiterated that anyone attempting to cause disturbances or block public roads would face the full weight of the law.

Concluding the briefing, Jimoh reaffirmed the Lagos State Police Command’s commitment to enforcing the law without fear or favour. He stressed that while freedom of expression is guaranteed, it must not escalate into public nuisance or jeopardize lives.