Lagos State Police Command has declared human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, wanted for allegedly orchestrating plans to incite public disorder and obstruct critical highways in the metropolis.
The state Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, made the declaration during a press briefing on Monday at the Iyana-Oworo axis of the Third Mainland Bridge.
Jimoh stated that Sowore and his associates were plotting to stage unauthorized demonstrations at strategic locations, including the Third Mainland Bridge, Lekki Tollgate, and Freedom Park.
“Sowore is hereby advised to turn himself in at the nearest police station or risk being arrested wherever he is located,” the CP warned. “Any attempt to disrupt public peace or block major roads will be met with decisive legal action.”
He described the alleged scheme as a criminal enterprise that could paralyze traffic, endanger lives, and compromise public infrastructure.
“Only someone in need of urgent mental evaluation would contemplate blocking a critical artery like the Third Mainland Bridge, which serves thousands of commuters daily,” Jimoh said.
The police boss disclosed that 13 individuals had already been apprehended in connection with the planned protest, while Sowore reportedly evaded arrest. Ongoing investigations aim to uncover the identities of sponsors and collaborators.
Security operatives have been strategically deployed across major bridges, highways, and flashpoints, with temporary roadblocks and diversions implemented to forestall any breakdown of law and order.
Jimoh emphasized that the Third Mainland Bridge was not engineered to accommodate stationary crowds, warning that such gatherings could trigger structural damage.
The CP also addressed rising tensions over recent demolitions in the Oworonshoki area, insisting that affected residents who qualified for compensation had received payments in the presence of media witnesses.
“There is no basis for anyone to hide under the cloak of protest to foment crisis,” he added.
He urged residents to go about their lawful activities without fear, assuring that security agencies remain vigilant and fully mobilized to protect lives and property.
“We are wide awake. Anyone who attempts to undermine public safety in Lagos will be apprehended, thoroughly investigated, and prosecuted,” Jimoh declared.
He stressed that while the right to freedom of expression is recognized, it must not degenerate into public nuisance or pose risks to innocent citizens.