The Lagos State Police Command has declared human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, wanted over alleged attempts to incite public disorder.
The Commissioner of Police, Olorundare Jimoh, had earlier warned Sowore against mobilizing protests over the recent demolition of buildings in the Oworonshoki area of Lagos.
Sowore, who is the convener of the Take It Back Movement, had, two weeks ago, threatened to stage a protest against what he described as the unlawful demolition of residential houses in Oworonshoki.
The state government, however, defended the exercise, saying it was part of its urban renewal and modernization project aimed at improving infrastructure in the area.
Despite police warnings, members of the Take It Back Movement on Monday defied the directive and embarked on a peaceful protest. The demonstration was later dispersed by anti-riot police and operatives of the state task force, who fired tear gas canisters to disperse the crowd.
Sowore was, however, reportedly absent from the protest.
Speaking after the incident, Commissioner Jimoh declared the activist wanted, accusing him of attempting to incite public disorder and cause disruption across parts of the state.
“He has put all plans in motion to obstruct traffic on the Third Mainland Bridge. That is an act amounting to a serious felony. It’s designed to cause hardship to Lagos residents and visitors who use that route,” the CP said.
“We will not allow this to happen. We are closing in on him. Wherever he is, we will get him. We have it on video—he flew in from Abuja but refused to come down because he was afraid.”
Meanwhile, a heavy police presence was observed at strategic locations across Lagos, including the Third Mainland Bridge, to forestall any protest or activity that could lead to public disorder or traffic disruption.
