In a significant escalation of tensions in Nigeria's commercial capital, the Lagos State Police Command has officially declared human rights activist and publisher of the online news platform Sahara Reporters, Omoyele Sowore, wanted. The declaration stems from allegations that Sowore is orchestrating a coordinated plot to incite public disorder and block major thoroughfares across the state, potentially paralyzing daily life for millions of residents. This development was announced on Monday, October 3, by the state Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, during a press briefing held at the Iyana-Oworo section of the iconic Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos.
Commissioner Jimoh, addressing a gathering of journalists amid the bustling traffic of one of Africa's longest bridges, revealed that the police command had received credible intelligence reports detailing Sowore's plans. According to the reports, Sowore and his associates intend to stage simultaneous demonstrations at several strategic locations within the metropolis. These include the Third Mainland Bridge itself, the controversial Lekki Tollgate—site of the infamous 2020 #EndSARS protests—and Freedom Park, a public space often used for gatherings and rallies. The commissioner emphasized that such actions could lead to widespread chaos, endangering public safety and infringing on the rights of law-abiding citizens to move freely.
"The command is closing in on Mr. Sowore and others accused of coordinating activities intended to disrupt public peace," Jimoh stated firmly. He issued a direct ultimatum to the activist: "Sowore should surrender at the nearest police station or face arrest wherever he is found." This stern warning underscores the police's determination to preempt any unrest before it materializes. Jimoh further cautioned that any attempts to block major roads or incite violence would be met with swift and decisive law enforcement action. "Anyone attempting to cause disturbance or block our roads will face the full weight of the law," he declared. In a pointed remark, he added, "It is only someone who needs examination that would attempt to block such a vital route used by thousands daily," highlighting the impracticality and potential danger of such disruptions on infrastructure critical to Lagos's economy and mobility.
To bolster their claims, the police boss disclosed that 13 suspects had already been apprehended in connection with the planned protests. These individuals, according to Jimoh, were part of the network allegedly mobilized by Sowore, who is said to have fled the scene to evade capture. Investigations are reportedly underway to uncover the full extent of the plot, including identifying any sponsors, financiers, or collaborators who may be fueling the agitation from behind the scenes. The commissioner assured the public that no stone would be left unturned in this probe, aiming to dismantle any organized efforts to destabilize the state.
In a proactive measure to safeguard the city, Jimoh announced the deployment of police officers to key vulnerable areas. Enhanced patrols and security checkpoints have been established across major bridges, highways, and potential flashpoints. Temporary roadblocks and traffic diversions are now in place to monitor movements and deter any unauthorized gatherings. Particular attention is being paid to the Third Mainland Bridge, a vital artery connecting Lagos Island to the mainland and handling an immense volume of vehicular traffic daily. Jimoh explained the structural concerns associated with protests on such infrastructure: "The Third Mainland Bridge was not designed to hold stationary weight. Any gathering on it could pose structural risks," he warned, citing engineering principles that prohibit prolonged stationary loads on the bridge's span, which could compromise its integrity and lead to catastrophic failures.
The announcement comes against a backdrop of simmering public discontent, particularly linked to recent government demolitions in various parts of Lagos. Jimoh addressed this directly, referencing the clearances in the Oworo-Soki area, where structures were razed to make way for urban development projects. He insisted that the Lagos State Government had handled the matter transparently and fairly, with affected residents receiving due compensation. "The government compensated those affected, and the media witnessed it," Jimoh pointed out, countering narratives of injustice that protesters might exploit. "There is no justification to provoke a crisis under the guise of protest," he asserted, framing the planned demonstrations as opportunistic rather than genuine grievances.
Amid these developments, the commissioner sought to allay fears among Lagosians, a megacity home to over 20 million people where traffic gridlock and security concerns are everyday realities. He reassured residents that the police were fully vigilant and committed to maintaining order. "We are not sleeping. We will apprehend, investigate, and prosecute anyone attempting to undermine public safety in Lagos," Jimoh vowed, urging the public to go about their normal activities without trepidation. This message of reassurance is crucial in a city where rumors of protests can quickly escalate into panic, affecting commerce, transportation, and daily routines.
Omoyele Sowore, a prominent figure in Nigeria's pro-democracy movement, has a history of activism that often puts him at odds with authorities. As the founder of Sahara Reporters, an investigative journalism outlet known for exposing corruption and human rights abuses, Sowore has been a vocal critic of government policies. He gained international attention in 2019 when he ran for president under the African Action Congress and was subsequently arrested multiple times for organizing the #RevolutionNow protests, which called for systemic change. His current predicament echoes these past confrontations, raising questions about the balance between freedom of expression and public order in Nigeria's democracy.
The police's declaration has sparked debates on social media and among civil society groups. Supporters of Sowore argue that the move is an attempt to silence dissent, especially amid economic hardships, rising inflation, and infrastructure challenges facing ordinary Nigerians. Critics of the government point to the Lekki Tollgate as a symbol of unresolved injustices from the 2020 protests, where security forces were accused of using excessive force. On the other hand, proponents of the police action commend the preemptive steps, viewing them as necessary to prevent a repeat of past violences that led to loss of lives and property damage.
As Lagos braces for potential fallout, the situation remains fluid. The Third Mainland Bridge, recently undergoing repairs and upgrades, symbolizes both the city's progress and its vulnerabilities. With officers on high alert and investigations intensifying, the coming days will test the resolve of both law enforcement and activists. Commissioner Jimoh's briefing serves as a clear signal: Lagos authorities are prepared to enforce the law rigorously to preserve peace in one of Africa's most dynamic urban centers.
This episode highlights broader issues in Nigeria, including the right to protest versus the imperative of public safety, the role of media in shaping narratives, and the government's approach to urban renewal amid socioeconomic strains. For now, residents are advised to stay informed through official channels and report any suspicious activities. The police command's hotline remains open for tips, as the hunt for Sowore and his alleged accomplices continues. In a city that never sleeps, the stakes for maintaining order have rarely been higher.
