Lagos Demolition Protest: Police Declare Sowore Wanted Over Alleged Plot to Disrupt Public Peace

The Lagos State Police Command has declared political activist and Sahara Reporters publisher, Mr. Omoyele Sowore, wanted for allegedly coordinating plans to incite public disorder and block major roads across the state.

The Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olohundare Jimoh, made the announcement on Monday during a press briefing at the Iyana-Oworo section of the Third Mainland Bridge, warning that the command would not tolerate any attempt to disrupt peace or obstruct free movement in the city.

According to the Police Chief, intelligence reports revealed that Sowore and some of his associates had been planning to stage simultaneous demonstrations at strategic locations, including the Third Mainland Bridge, Lekki Tollgate, and Freedom Park.

“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 Commissioner declared.

Jimoh described the alleged plan as “reckless, unlawful, and capable of endangering lives and property.” He warned that any attempt to obstruct key transport routes could lead to severe traffic congestion and pose significant safety risks.

“It is only someone who needs examination that would attempt to block such a vital route used by thousands daily,” he added.

The Commissioner disclosed that 13 suspects had already been arrested in connection with the planned protest, while Sowore had allegedly gone into hiding. Investigations, he said, were ongoing to identify sponsors, collaborators, and financiers behind the move.

He confirmed that security operatives had been deployed across sensitive locations — including bridges, expressways, and government installations — to prevent any attempt at mobilization or disruption.

Jimoh emphasized that these security measures were temporary and aimed solely at safeguarding public peace, ensuring free movement, and protecting critical infrastructure within Lagos.

“The Third Mainland Bridge was not designed to hold stationary weight. Any gathering on it could pose structural risks,” the Police Commissioner explained.

Addressing concerns over recent demolitions in parts of Lagos, especially around the Oworo-Soki area, Jimoh dismissed speculations linking the protests to compensation disputes.

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

The Police Commissioner urged residents to continue their normal daily activities without fear, assuring that security agencies were fully on alert to maintain peace and stability across the state.

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

He reiterated that while freedom of expression is constitutionally guaranteed, it must not be abused or used as a pretext to disrupt public order, cause panic, or endanger lives.

“No one is above the law. The Lagos Police Command remains resolute in enforcing peace without fear or favour,” he concluded.