The Commissioner of Police for Lagos State, Mr. Olohundare Jimoh, has issued a warning to activist Omoyele Sowore and others regarding the organization of protests in response to recent demolitions within the state.
Jimoh delivered this warning while speaking to journalists at the Iyana-Oworo area of the Third Mainland Bridge on Monday in Lagos.
The police chief stated that the command has implemented extensive deployments throughout the city to prevent any planned demonstrations that may result in public disorder.
He stressed that the command will not permit any efforts to obstruct major highways or disrupt the peace that is currently being experienced in Lagos.
“We wish to caution Sowore and his associates to refrain from coming to Lagos or they will face the full consequences of the law.
“The Third Mainland Bridge is crucial to the Nigerian economy and the safety of lives and property, making it unthinkable for anyone to consider blocking it.
“Every day, thousands rely on that route for their livelihoods and for medical emergencies,” he stated.
The police chief mentioned that officers have been deployed at key locations, including the Third Mainland Bridge, Maryland, Ojota, Gani Fawehinmi Park, Gbagada, Bariga Lekki Toll Gate, and other sites to maintain peace and order.
He noted that while the Constitution provides for freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, protests must adhere to established procedures and must not violate the rights of others.
“Anyone intending to organize a peaceful protest must comply with the prescribed protocols.
“What we have observed recently is not a protest but rather attempts to disturb public peace. Those who engage in such actions will be addressed according to the law,” he remarked.
Regarding the recent demolition in Oworonshoki, Jimoh defended the government’s actions, labeling the affected areas as illegal structures and hideouts for criminals.
“Those locations were being utilized by criminals to launch attacks on innocent Nigerians.
“The government is justified in their decision to clear them. Legitimate residents have received compensation, and this was documented and reported by the media two days ago,” he concluded.
He charged certain individuals with trying to take advantage of the situation for political or unlawful ends, cautioning that the police would not permit anyone to disguise their actions as protest in order to create disorder.
“Anyone who conceals their intentions under the banner of activism to instigate chaos is part of a conspiracy to engage in criminal activity; we will not allow that,” he stated.
The commissioner reassured law-abiding citizens of sufficient protection, encouraging them to continue their daily routines without apprehension.
“Every Nigerian has the right to protection, safety, and freedom of movement.
“We will persist in our efforts to keep Lagos peaceful, but we will not tolerate criminal acts disguised as protests,” he remarked.
(NAN)
