Lagos CP warns Sowore, others against protest over demolitions
The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olohundare Jimoh, has issued a stern warning to activist Omoyele Sowore and his associates against mobilising protests over recent demolitions in the state.
Speaking to journalists on Monday at the Iyana-Oworo axis of the Third Mainland Bridge, Jimoh said the command had deployed personnel across strategic locations in Lagos to prevent any demonstration that could lead to public disorder.
“We want to warn Sowore and his group to stay away from Lagos or face the full weight of the law,” he said, stressing that the Third Mainland Bridge was too critical to the nation’s economy and public safety to be obstructed.
According to him, thousands of Lagosians rely on the bridge daily for work, emergencies, and other essential activities.
The commissioner listed areas under surveillance to include Maryland, Ojota, Gani Fawehinmi Park, Gbagada, Bariga, Lekki Toll Gate, and the Third Mainland Bridge, among others.
READ ALSO:
While acknowledging the constitutional right to peaceful assembly, Jimoh insisted that protests must follow due process and not infringe on the rights of others.
“What we have seen in recent times is not protest but attempts to disrupt public peace. Anyone who engages in such will be dealt with according to the law,” he said.
On the recent demolition exercise in Oworonshoki, Jimoh defended the government’s action, describing the cleared structures as illegal and often used by criminals to launch attacks.
He said genuine residents had been compensated, adding that the process was documented and covered by the media.
Jimoh also accused certain individuals of exploiting the situation for political or criminal motives, warning that the police would not tolerate any attempt to cause chaos under the guise of activism.
“Anyone hiding under activism to cause chaos is complicit in a conspiracy to commit crime. We will not permit that,” he said.
He assured law-abiding residents of their safety and urged them to go about their daily activities without fear.
“Every Nigerian is entitled to protection, safety, and freedom of movement. We will continue to ensure that Lagos remains peaceful, but criminality under the cover of protest will not be tolerated,” he added.