The Lagos State Police Command has declared human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, wanted over alleged public disturbance.
The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State, Olorundare Jimoh, had earlier cautioned Sowore against mobilizing protests over the recent demolition of buildings in Oworonshoki area of Lagos.
Sowore, also the organizer of the ‘Take It Back Movement’, had penultimate week threatened to stage a protest against the demolition of houses in Oworoshoki.
The demolition, according to the state government, was part of its urban modernization project.
Despite police warning, the members of the movement on Monday defied the directive and embarked on a peaceful protest.
However, anti-riot police and operatives of the state taskforce fired tear gas canisters to disperse the protesters.
Meanwhile, Sowore was reportedly absent during the protest.
Speaking after security operatives dispersed the crowd, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Olorundare Jimoh, declared Sowore wanted for allegedly attempting to incite public disorder.
“He has put all the plan in motion to obstruct traffic on the third mainland bridge. It is an act that causes serious felony. It is to cause hardship on Nigerians, especially visitors who are transiting the route.
“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 and he did not come down. Why did he not come down, it was because he is afraid,” the CP said.
Our correspondent observed a heavy police presence at strategic locations in Lagos, including the Third Mainland Bridge, to prevent any protest that could lead to public disorder or traffic disruption.
