The Lagos State Police Command has declared Sahara Reporters publisher, Omoyele Sowore, wanted for allegedly planning to incite public disorder and block major roads across the state.
Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh announced this on Monday while addressing journalists at the Iyana-Oworo section of the Third Mainland Bridge.
He said the command was closing in on Mr Sowore and others accused of coordinating activities aimed at disrupting public peace.
“Sowore should surrender at the nearest police station or face arrest wherever he is found. Anyone attempting to cause disturbance or block our roads will face the full weight of the law,” he said.
According to the commissioner, intelligence reports indicated plans by Sowore and his associates to stage demonstrations at strategic locations, including the Third Mainland Bridge, Lekki Tollgate, and Freedom Park.
Mr Jimoh described the alleged plan as criminal, warning that it could cause severe traffic congestion and put lives at risk.
“It is only someone who needs examination that would attempt to block such a vital route used by thousands daily,” he said.
The police boss revealed that 13 suspects had already been arrested in connection with the planned protest, while Sowore had allegedly fled. He said investigations were ongoing to identify possible sponsors and collaborators.
Jimoh added that officers had been deployed across key areas of Lagos, especially major bridges and highways, where temporary roadblocks and diversions were in place to prevent any disruption.
He explained that the measures were designed to protect critical infrastructure and ensure the safety of commuters.
“The Third Mainland Bridge was not designed to hold stationary weight. Any gathering on it could pose structural risks,” he noted.
Addressing concerns about recent demolitions in parts of Lagos, particularly in the Oworo-Soki area, Jimoh said the government had compensated eligible residents, adding that protests over the matter were unjustified.
“The government compensated those affected, and the media witnessed it. There is no justification to provoke crisis under the guise of protest,” he said.
The commissioner urged Lagosians to go about their normal activities without fear, assuring that security agencies were fully on alert to maintain order.
“We are not sleeping. We will apprehend, investigate, and prosecute anyone attempting to undermine public safety in Lagos,” he said.
Jimoh reaffirmed the command’s commitment to enforcing the law impartially, stating that freedom of expression must not translate into public nuisance or threats to life.
