Lagos police declare activist Omoyele Sowore wanted over alleged plan to incite unrest

Police accuse Sowore of planning to disrupt public peace

The Lagos State Police Command has declared political activist and human rights campaigner, Mr. Omoyele Sowore, wanted over an alleged plan to incite public disorder and obstruct major roads across the state.

Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olohundare Jimoh, made the announcement while addressing journalists on Monday at the Iyana-Oworo end of the Third Mainland Bridge, one of Lagos’s busiest traffic corridors.

According to the commissioner, intelligence reports indicated that Sowore and a group of his associates were allegedly coordinating activities that could disrupt peace and obstruct vehicular movement in key areas of the city.

“Sowore should surrender at the nearest police station or face arrest wherever he is found,” Jimoh warned. “Anyone attempting to cause disturbance or block our roads will face the full weight of the law.”

Intelligence reports reveal planned demonstrations

Commissioner Jimoh disclosed that the police had gathered intelligence suggesting plans to stage demonstrations simultaneously at the Third Mainland Bridge, Lekki Tollgate, and Freedom Park — three high-traffic and symbolic locations in Lagos.

He described the alleged plan as a criminal act, noting that such actions could paralyze the city, cause severe traffic gridlock, and potentially endanger lives.

“It is only someone who needs examination that would attempt to block such a vital route used by thousands daily,” he stated, referring to the Third Mainland Bridge, which connects Lagos Island to the mainland and serves as a lifeline for commuters.

Thirteen suspects arrested as police intensify search

The Lagos police chief revealed that thirteen suspects had already been arrested in connection with the alleged plan, while Mr. Sowore was said to have fled the scene. Investigations, he added, were ongoing to identify and apprehend possible sponsors and collaborators behind the planned demonstration.

Jimoh noted that officers had been strategically deployed across major bridges, highways, and intersections in the state to prevent any attempt to obstruct roads or incite public disturbance. He explained that temporary roadblocks and diversions were part of preventive measures to ensure safety and maintain order.

“The Third Mainland Bridge was not designed to hold stationary weight. Any gathering on it could pose structural risks,” he said, emphasizing the danger of using public infrastructure for unauthorized demonstrations.

Police address tension over recent demolitions

Commissioner Jimoh also spoke about growing tension related to recent demolition exercises in parts of Lagos, particularly in the Oworo-Soki and Oworonshoki areas. He clarified that the Lagos State Government had compensated all eligible residents affected by the demolitions, dismissing claims that the exercise was being used as a pretext for protests.

“The government compensated those affected, and the media witnessed it. There is no justification to provoke crisis under the guise of protest,” he stated firmly.

Residents urged to remain calm

The police commissioner urged Lagosians to go about their normal activities without fear, assuring that security agencies are fully deployed to maintain peace and prevent any form of violence.

“We are not sleeping,” Jimoh said. “We will apprehend, investigate, and prosecute anyone attempting to undermine public safety in Lagos.”

He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of all citizens, emphasizing that while freedom of expression is constitutionally guaranteed, it must be exercised responsibly.

“Freedom of expression must not turn into public nuisance or risk lives,” he added.

Commitment to law enforcement and public safety

Mr. Jimoh reiterated that the Lagos State Police Command remains committed to enforcing the law without fear or favour. He urged residents to cooperate with the police by reporting suspicious activities and avoiding gatherings that could escalate into unrest.

“Our duty is to protect lives and property. Lagos remains peaceful, and we will continue to ensure that it stays that way,” he concluded.