Lagos Police Warn Sowore, Others Against Protests Over Demolitions
The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, has cautioned human rights activist Omoyele Sowore and other groups against mobilising street protests in reaction to the recent wave of demolitions carried out across the state.
Jimoh issued the warning on Tuesday while addressing journalists at the Iyana-Oworo area near the Third Mainland Bridge, where he also inspected police deployments aimed at maintaining law and order.
The police commissioner disclosed that the command had made extensive security deployments across Lagos to prevent any demonstrations that could lead to public disorder or traffic disruptions.
“We will not allow any individual or group to block major highways or disturb the peace currently being enjoyed in Lagos. Anyone found attempting to incite unrest will be dealt with in accordance with the law,” Jimoh stated.
He listed several strategic locations now under police surveillance, including the Third Mainland Bridge, Maryland, Ojota, Gani Fawehinmi Park, Gbagada, Bariga, and the Lekki Toll Gate, among others, where officers have been stationed to ensure peace and order.
While acknowledging that the Nigerian Constitution guarantees citizens’ rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, Jimoh stressed that such activities must be conducted within the law and without infringing on the rights of others.
“Peaceful protest is lawful, but it must follow due process. Once it begins to disrupt traffic or threaten lives and property, it becomes unlawful, and the police will act accordingly,” he added.
The warning comes amid growing tension in parts of Lagos following the demolition of properties allegedly built on waterways and government right-of-way, a move that has drawn both criticism and support from residents and activists.
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