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By Christopher Oji
Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has issued a stern warning to individuals and groups planning to stage protests in the state, emphasizing that any attempt to disrupt public peace will be met with the full weight of the law.
He specifically warned activist, Omoyele Sowore,his loyalists and others he described as mischief makers to stay away from the state or risk his wrath.
Speaking to journalists on Monday on Third Mainland Bridge , Oworonshoki axis , Venue of planned protest over demolition of their property by the state government, CP Jimoh disclosed that the police had made extensive deployments across strategic locations in the city, including the Third Mainland Bridge, Maryland, Ojota, Gani Fawehinmi Park, Abdulrahman Gbadamosi area, Bagada, and Lekki Toll Gate, to prevent any unlawful gatherings.
“We have made massive deployments since last night to ensure that no individual takes the law into their own hands or disrupts the peace that residents of Lagos are enjoying,” the Commissioner stated.
“No person or group should think it is wise to engage in acts that threaten the safety of lives and property.”
He emphasised that the Third Mainland Bridge, a major economic artery for Lagos and Nigeria, must not be obstructed under any guise. According to him, thousands of people, including those with medical emergencies and those engaged in daily economic activities, rely on the bridge for movement.
While reiterating that peaceful protest is a constitutional right, CP Jimoh stressed that it must follow due process and not endanger public safety.
“Anybody that wishes to organize a peaceful protest must adhere to laid down procedures,” he said. “What we have seen is not protest but an attempt to cause disruption and public disorder. Such actions will not be tolerated.”
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The recent demolition of illegal settlements in Oworonshoki, CP Jimoh maintained that the police acted within the law, noting that the areas affected were reportedly used by criminals as hideouts.
“We have raided several areas and recovered dangerous weapons. The government’s action was justified,” he explained. “Those who were genuine occupants have been compensated, and the process was even covered by the media.”
The Commissioner warned activist Omoyele Sowore and others he described as “mischief-makers” to stay away from Lagos, alleging that some individuals were attempting to exploit grievances for political or criminal purposes.
“Anyone hiding under the guise of activism or protest to cause mayhem will be treated as a criminal. Lagos is peaceful, and we intend to keep it that way,” he asserted.
CP Jimoh, however, reassured law-abiding residents that the police remain committed to protecting lives and property across the state.
“Every Nigerian is entitled to protection, safety, and freedom of movement,” he said. “Freedom of expression is part of our democracy, but criminality will not be condoned.”
The police chief urged residents to go about their lawful activities without fear, assuring that adequate security measures are in place to maintain peace.
