The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mr Olohundare Jimoh, has warned activist Omoyele Sowore and others against mobilising protests over the recent demolitions carried out in parts of the state.
Jimoh issued the warning on Monday while addressing journalists at the Iyana-Oworo axis of the Third Mainland Bridge, Lagos.
He said the command had made massive deployments across the city to prevent any planned demonstrations that could lead to public disorder.
According to him, the police would not tolerate any attempt to block major highways or disrupt the peace currently being enjoyed in the state.
“We want to warn Sowore and his group to stay away from Lagos or face the full weight of the law.
The Third Mainland Bridge is too vital to the Nigerian economy and the safety of lives and property for anyone to think of blocking it,” Jimoh said.
He added that thousands of people rely on the bridge daily for their livelihood and medical emergencies, warning that any obstruction could have dire consequences.
The police commissioner also listed strategic areas under close surveillance, including the Third Mainland Bridge, Maryland, Ojota, Gani Fawehinmi Park, Gbagada, Bariga, and the Lekki Toll Gate.
While acknowledging the constitutional right to peaceful protest, Jimoh stressed that such actions must follow due process and not infringe on the rights of others.
“Anyone who wishes to organise a peaceful protest must follow the laid-down procedures. What we have seen in recent times are not protests but attempts to disrupt public peace,” he said.
Speaking on the demolition exercise in Oworonshoki, Jimoh defended the Lagos State Government’s action, describing the affected areas as illegal structures and criminal hideouts.
“Those areas were being used by criminals to launch attacks on innocent citizens. The government is justified in clearing them. Genuine residents have been compensated, and this was documented by the media two days ago,” he stated.
The commissioner also accused certain individuals of trying to exploit the situation for political or criminal motives, warning that such attempts would be met with the full force of the law.
He urged Lagos residents to go about their lawful activities without fear, assuring them of adequate protection by the police.
“Every Nigerian is entitled to safety and freedom of movement. Lagos will remain peaceful, but criminality under the guise of activism will not be tolerated,” Jimoh said.
(NAN)
About Author
