Sowore Ignorant, Arrogant, and Still Wanted – Lagos CP

The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has described political activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, as “ignorant and arrogant,” reaffirming that he remains wanted by the police with strict directives for his arrest anywhere in the country.

Speaking to journalists during a ‘Show of Force’ operation on the Third Mainland Bridge on Friday, CP Jimoh said the command had stepped up security across Lagos to prevent a repeat of the September 8 violent protest allegedly linked to Sowore.

“This is to ensure that we do not have any repeat of what happened on September 8. Sowore is known for his antics. He is ignorant of the law and arrogant. I have declared him wanted,” Jimoh said.
“I have directed that anywhere he is seen, whether in a hotel, in transit, on the ground, or even at the airport he should be apprehended and prosecuted,” he added.

The commissioner explained that the activist was being sought over alleged plans to incite public unrest in Lagos. According to him, intelligence reports indicated that Sowore and his associates had mobilized protesters to block major roads before officers intervened.

“When he was planning the mayhem, we got information ahead and struck at the point where he had gathered about 300 protesters.
In the process, 13 were arrested, and the vehicle they intended to use to block the Third Mainland Bridge was recovered. Those suspects have since been arraigned and remanded in custody,” he revealed.

CP Jimoh challenged Sowore to return to Lagos to face the law, accusing him of evading arrest.

“If he is bold enough to show up in Abuja, why can’t he show up in Lagos? Let him come forward and face the law,” the CP said.

His remarks followed Sowore’s rejection of his wanted status, which the activist described as illegal and unconstitutional. Sowore had earlier claimed that no police officer, including the commissioner, had the authority to declare anyone wanted without a court order.

He also alleged that the declaration stemmed from the police’s failure to execute a supposed “shoot-at-sight” directive during the Oworonshoki protest.

But CP Jimoh insisted that the police acted within their constitutional mandate to protect lives and maintain public order, citing Section 215 of the 1999 Constitution.

“I deem it fit to declare Sowore wanted because of his threat to the peace and welfare of Lagos residents,” he stated.

The commissioner further explained that the temporary closure of Berger Bus Stop earlier in the week was a preventive measure to avert unrest, adding that it is now reopened daily by 3:00 p.m. with alternative routes provided for commuters.

Jimoh urged Lagosians to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring them that the state remains under tight security surveillance.

“Lagos is safe. We are on the ground 24/7 to ensure residents go about their lawful businesses without fear,” he said.