Breaking: Lagos Police Declare Sowore Wanted Over Alleged Plan To Spark Nationwide Chaos

The Lagos State Police Command has declared activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore wanted over allegations of planning to incite public disorder and block key roads across the state.

Police Commissioner Olohundare Jimoh made the announcement on Monday while speaking to journalists at the Iyana-Oworo section of the Third Mainland Bridge, stressing that the command would not tolerate any attempts to disrupt public peace.

According to Jimoh, intelligence reports indicate that Sowore and his associates had identified strategic locations, including the Third Mainland Bridge, Lekki Tollgate, and Freedom Park, for coordinated demonstrations.

The Commissioner warned, “Sowore should report to the nearest police station or face arrest wherever he is found. Anyone attempting to disrupt order or obstruct our roads will be dealt with under the full weight of the law.”

He described the proposed protests as “criminal acts” that could lead to severe traffic congestion and endanger lives, adding, “Only someone in need of examination would attempt to block such a critical route used by thousands daily.”

13 Arrested, Sowore on the Run
Jimoh confirmed that 13 suspects had been arrested in connection with the alleged protest plan, while Sowore reportedly evaded arrest before operations commenced.

“Investigations are ongoing to identify sponsors and collaborators,” the Commissioner said. Security personnel have been deployed across Lagos, including bridges, highways, and key entry points, with temporary roadblocks and traffic diversions implemented to maintain order.

“The Third Mainland Bridge was not designed to accommodate stationary crowds; any gathering could compromise its structural integrity,” Jimoh warned.

He also addressed recent demolitions in parts of Lagos, especially the Oworo-Soki area, rejecting claims that affected residents were not compensated. “The government provided compensation, and media representatives witnessed it. There is no justification to provoke unrest under the guise of protest,” he said.

The police chief reassured Lagos residents that there is no cause for panic, noting that all security agencies are fully mobilised to protect lives and property.

“We are vigilant. Anyone attempting to undermine public safety in Lagos will be apprehended, investigated, and prosecuted,” Jimoh stated. He reiterated that the command is committed to enforcing the law impartially, emphasizing that freedom of expression is guaranteed but must not escalate into public disorder or lawlessness.