Lagos Police Vow to Arrest Activist Sowore Over Alleged Plot for Violent Protests

The Lagos State Police Command has doubled down on its commitment to apprehend political activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore. Authorities accuse him of orchestrating plans to incite violent demonstrations that could destabilize public order in Nigeria’s commercial capital.

A Firm Stance from the Police Commissioner

Commissioner of Police Mr. Olohundare Jimoh reaffirmed the arrest order during a high-level security briefing held at the command headquarters in Ikeja on Monday. Jimoh stated that despite a formal invitation and a subsequent promise from Sowore’s legal representative, the activist failed to present himself for questioning.

“He never showed up,” Jimoh told reporters. “If you are declared wanted, you must report to the nearest police station, not call me on the phone. The order for his arrest stands. Any officer who sees him, whether on the road, in a restaurant, or anywhere else, should arrest him and bring him to the State Criminal Investigation Department for proper investigation.”

Legal Justification and Intercepted Protest

The Police Commissioner justified the move by citing Section 215 of the Nigerian Constitution, which grants him the authority to maintain law and order and protect lives and property. He revealed that security forces had recently intercepted a group of approximately 300 individuals allegedly mobilizing to disrupt public peace on the critical Third Mainland Bridge under the guise of a protest.

“Thirteen of them were arrested, and a vehicle containing loudspeakers and a generator intended for the protest was seized,” Jimoh reported, framing the police action as a necessary preemptive measure.

Dismissing Criticism and Upholding the Law

In the face of social media backlash, Commissioner Jimoh dismissed critics as ignorant of the law, insisting his actions were both lawful and essential. “Anyone who is dissatisfied can go to court,” he declared. “But as Commissioner of Police, I will continue to act within the law to protect the people of Lagos State. We will not allow enemies of progress to plunge Lagos back into chaos.”

He further clarified that he had not been served with any court order preventing Sowore’s arrest and pledged to comply immediately should such an order be formally presented.

Directive to Officers and Defense of Bridge Action

Jimoh has issued a clear directive to all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and Tactical Units to arrest Sowore on sight, with the sole exception being if he is inside a courtroom. He emphasized that no individual or group would be permitted to destabilize the state under the pretense of protest.

The Commissioner was particularly scathing in his assessment of the attempted September 8th protest on the Third Mainland Bridge, labeling it an irresponsible act that posed a grave threat to public safety and the local economy.

“Only someone who needs their head examined would consider protesting on the Third Mainland Bridge,” he remarked. “Such infrastructure, built with taxpayers’ money, must be protected at all costs.”

He defended the police dispersal of the group, stating it was done with minimal force and within constitutional limits, resulting in no casualties despite some motorists fainting due to the ensuing traffic gridlock.

Policing Initiatives and Reassurance to the Public

Shifting to a broader perspective, Commissioner Jimoh highlighted several policing initiatives launched under his leadership. These include the expansion of specialized units like the Eko Strike Force, Anti-Cultism Teams, and Anti-Car Theft Squads.

“Since I took office, we have expanded tactical squads from 23 to 33 units across the state,” he said. “Our anti-car theft unit alone has recovered over 60 vehicles, including those stolen from other states.”

He praised the dedication of his officers in policing a metropolis of over 20 million people and expressed gratitude to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Inspector-General of Police for their support. The briefing concluded with a firm assurance to Lagos residents.

“There is no reason for fear or worry. Lagos remains safe, and we will continue to protect every resident and visitor within the framework of the law,” Jimoh stated.

Source: Original Report