By Atoyebi Nike
The Lagos State Police Command has declared activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore wanted, accusing him of plotting protests aimed at disrupting public peace and obstructing major roads in the state.
Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh announced the development on Monday during a briefing at the Iyana-Oworo end of the Third Mainland Bridge. He said Sowore, leader of the “Take It Back Movement,” allegedly ignored police warnings against organising demonstrations over the recent demolition of houses in Oworonshoki.
“We are closing in on Sowore and others coordinating activities intended to disturb public order. He should surrender at the nearest police station or be arrested wherever he is found,” Jimoh said.
He claimed intelligence reports indicated plans for simultaneous protests at the Third Mainland Bridge, Lekki Tollgate, and Freedom Park actions he described as “criminal” and capable of causing heavy traffic congestion and endangering lives. The CP said 13 suspects linked to the planned protest had been arrested, while Sowore had allegedly fled.
Jimoh also warned that gatherings on the Third Mainland Bridge could pose structural risks, stressing that temporary roadblocks and diversions had been deployed across major routes.
Addressing concerns over the Oworonshoki demolitions, he insisted affected residents were compensated and said there was “no justification” for protests that could trigger unrest.
The commissioner urged Lagosians to go about their normal activities, assuring that security agencies were monitoring the situation. He emphasized that while citizens have the right to free expression, it must not translate into actions that threaten public safety.
Sowore earlier criticised the demolitions and vowed to lead a protest, despite police warnings issued beforehand.
