Sowore Reacts as Lagos Police Declare Him Wanted Over Planned Bridge Protest

Activist and politician Omoyele Sowore has confirmed he is aware that the Lagos State Police Command has declared him wanted for allegedly disturbing public peace.

The announcement came on Monday from Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh, following reports that Sowore and his supporters intended to block the Third Mainland Bridge in protest against the demolition of houses in Oworonshoki.

According to CP Jimoh, anti-riot police were deployed to the bridge from as early as 8 a.m. to prevent any obstruction that could disrupt traffic and economic activity. He stated, “I hereby declare Sowore wanted for alleged offences, including causing disturbance of public peace and planning to obstruct traffic and create hardship for Lagos residents. He should report to the nearest police station. We are closing in on him and will investigate and prosecute.”

The Commissioner questioned why Sowore, who has previously staged protests in Abuja, was not in Lagos to address the matter. He added that the deployment of officers was aimed at protecting lives, safeguarding critical infrastructure, and ensuring the free movement of commuters between Lagos Island and the mainland.

“This bridge is vital to the city’s economy and the wellbeing of commuters. We will not allow any action, peaceful or otherwise, that seeks to block it and disrupt livelihoods. Anyone attempting to disturb public peace will face arrest and prosecution,” CP Jimoh said. He also warned that blocking the bridge could endanger public safety and compromise the structural integrity of the facility.

Police units have been strategically positioned at Iyana-Oworo, Ilubirin, Berger bus stop, and other key points to prevent demonstrators from accessing the bridge, while traffic-control units were deployed to maintain smooth vehicular movement. Thirteen arrests have already been made in connection with “miscreant” activities linked to the planned protest.

CP Jimoh noted that residents affected by the Oworonshoki demolitions had received compensation from the relevant government agency, describing any attempt to disrupt the Third Mainland Bridge as unjustified. Additional police contingents have been deployed to locations including Lekki Toll Gate and Freedom Park to prevent potential parallel protests.

Reacting via his verified Facebook page, Sowore accused the Lagos Police of acting on orders from an “illegal IGP” and described the wanted declaration as unnecessary. He added that he plans to meet with CP Jimoh to address the situation.