The Lagos State Police Command has declared human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, wanted for allegedly planning to disrupt public peace through a protest in the state.
Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, made the declaration while briefing journalists at the Command Headquarters in Ikeja.
According to the CP, Sowore is being sought in connection with an alleged plot to obstruct vehicular movement on the Third Mainland Bridge under the guise of a protest.
“I hereby, as the Commissioner of Police of the Lagos Police Command, declare Sowore wanted. He is wanted for causing disturbance of public peace and for acts to commit a serious felony by planning to obstruct traffic on the Third Mainland Bridge,” Jimoh said.
The police boss disclosed that intelligence reports had uncovered plans by the activist and his associates to cause hardship for Lagos residents and visitors through a mass action aimed at disrupting commercial activities.
“We will not allow this to happen. We are closing in on him wherever he is. He should come down and face the law,” he warned.
Jimoh further revealed that 13 suspects had already been arrested in connection with the alleged protest plot, adding that the planned action was unnecessary since the affected Oworonshoki residents had been compensated by the government.
“Those concerned have been paid compensation and continue to live peacefully. Sowore’s attempt to instigate violence in Lagos will not be tolerated,” the commissioner added.
He urged residents to remain calm and go about their daily activities without fear, assuring that the police had intensified surveillance across the state.
“Let him put his feet on the ground. The police have coverage everywhere. The same way we located him in Abuja, he will face the law here too,” Jimoh said.
Sowore, who was recently released from detention, had vowed to stage a protest over the demolition of properties in Oworonshoki, a move he described as an attack on the poor.
