Police Caution Sowore, Others Against Planned Protests Over Lagos Demolitions

The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, has cautioned activist Omoyele Sowore and others against mobilising demonstrations over the recent demolitions in the state.

Speaking to journalists at the Iyana-Oworo area of the Third Mainland Bridge on Monday, Jimoh said the command had deployed personnel across the city to prevent protests that could result in public unrest. He stressed that the police would not tolerate any attempt to block major roads or disrupt peace in the state.

“We are warning Sowore and his group to steer clear of Lagos or face the full weight of the law. The Third Mainland Bridge is too crucial to the economy and the safety of lives and property for anyone to attempt to obstruct it. Thousands rely on that route daily for their livelihood and emergencies,” he said.

The commissioner explained that officers had been strategically positioned in key areas, including the Third Mainland Bridge, Maryland, Ojota, Gani Fawehinmi Park, Gbagada, Bariga, and Lekki Toll Gate, to maintain order.

While acknowledging that the Constitution guarantees the right to expression and peaceful assembly, Jimoh emphasised that such activities must adhere to legal procedures and not infringe on others’ rights. “What we have seen recently are not protests but attempts to disturb public peace. Anyone involved will face the law,” he warned.

Addressing the recent Oworonshoki demolition, Jimoh defended the government’s actions, stating that the cleared areas contained illegal structures and served as hideouts for criminals. “The government’s move was justified. Genuine residents were compensated, and this was verified in the media,” he noted.

He accused some individuals of trying to exploit the situation for political or criminal motives and cautioned that the police would not permit chaos under the guise of activism.

Jimoh assured law-abiding citizens of adequate security, urging them to go about their normal activities. “Lagos will remain peaceful, and we will not allow any form of criminality disguised as protest,” he added.