Follow Us on Google
By Seyi Babalola
Olohundare Jimoh, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, has justified his decision to declare Omoyele Sowore, the activist and publisher of Sahara Reporters, wanted, claiming that he was acting within his constitutional authority to safeguard public order.
Jimoh stated on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily show on Wednesday that he acted legally to prevent what he characterised as a planned “violent protest” in Lagos.
“I have the right to declare him wanted. Any person who says I don’t have such a right should go to court,” the police commissioner said.
Jimoh explained that security operatives moved swiftly after monitoring posts allegedly made by Sowore, which he claimed indicated plans to mobilise protesters to block the Third Mainland Bridge.
He said the police took preventive measures by cordoning off parts of Lagos and “arresting 13 suspects linked to the protest.”
According to him, a vehicle carrying loudspeakers and a generator intended for the demonstration was also seized.
Other News
Jimoh said, “I don’t just declare (Sowore) wanted. When he posted something on his X handle, and it’s there for people to verify, that he had just taken a bath in Abuja, and the next point is Lagos, to block the Third Mainland Bridge.
“And we were well prepared. We cordoned off the entire area where he’s designated to come and conduct these violent protests. And we ensured that we made alternative arrangements for people to use.”
The commissioner added that his actions were guided by the need to ensure public safety, protect lives and property, and avert chaos in the state.
“I have the right under the Constitution to prevent crime from occurring, to prevent anybody that wants to take us into the house, to cause mayhem across the country,” he added.
He, however, clarified that the Inspector-General of Police had not given any directive to declare Sowore wanted, describing contrary reports as “mischievous.”
“The IGP, I say without any doubt, has not given such an order. And he has not given it not only to me, to virtually all the police institutions across the country,” he said.
