The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Jimoh Moshood, says activist and politician Omoyele Sowore has not reported to the police since he was declared wanted for allegedly plotting a protest that could have crippled Lagos traffic and public order.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Wednesday, Moshood dismissed claims that the Inspector General of Police ordered the action against Sowore. He described such reports as “misinformation,” stressing that his decision was fully backed by constitutional authority.
“I have the constitutional power to maintain public safety and order within Lagos State,” Moshood said. “When someone is mobilising thousands to march on the Third Mainland Bridge, which is critical to the country, I cannot allow that.”
The Commissioner explained that intelligence reports showed Sowore allegedly mobilised supporters to occupy the Third Mainland Bridge, a key route linking Lagos Island to the mainland. He said such action could have endangered lives and disrupted economic activities in Nigeria’s commercial hub.
Police operatives reportedly dispersed the gathering using what Moshood called “minimum force.” A vehicle fitted with loudspeakers and a generator, allegedly meant for the protest, was also recovered, while 13 suspects were arrested.
Moshood claimed that Sowore went into hiding after the protest attempt. According to him, Sowore’s lawyer had promised that the activist would report at the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Panti, but he failed to show up.
“We will do everything within the law to get him arrested, investigated, and prosecuted,” Moshood stated.
He maintained that declaring Sowore wanted was both lawful and necessary to prevent unrest in Lagos. The CP also warned that the Third Mainland Bridge and other critical infrastructure must not be used as protest grounds.
BACKGROUND
Omoyele Sowore, founder of the online news platform Sahara Reporters and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), has a long history of activism. He has been arrested multiple times for leading protests against bad governance, insecurity, and economic hardship.
The latest development has stirred conversations among civil rights groups, many of whom insist peaceful protest is a constitutional right. However, the Lagos Police Command maintains that public order must not be compromised under any guise.
