The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olohundare Jimoh, has reaffirmed that political activist and former Nigerian presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, remains on the police wanted list. He stated that law enforcement agencies have been directed to arrest him wherever he is found.
Speaking to journalists during a “Show of Force” operation on the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos on Friday, Jimoh said the exercise was part of a broader security measure aimed at preventing a repeat of the violent protests that occurred on September 8, 2025.
He explained that the police are taking proactive steps to reassure residents of their safety and ensure that no group disrupts public peace under any guise.
“This is to ensure that we do not have any repeat of what happened on September 8. Sowore is known for his antics. He is ignorant of the law and arrogant. I have declared him wanted,” Jimoh said.
Okay News reports that the commissioner issued a directive for Sowore’s immediate arrest, warning that he should be apprehended wherever he is found — whether in a hotel, on the streets, or at the airport.
Jimoh revealed that intelligence reports indicated Sowore and his associates were planning to stage protests intended to disrupt public order, but the police intercepted them before the plan could be executed.
“When he was planning the mayhem, we got information ahead and struck at the point where he had gathered about 300 protesters. In the process, 13 were apprehended, and the vehicle they intended to use to block the Third Mainland Bridge was recovered. Those suspects have since been arraigned and remanded in custody,” he said.
The Lagos police boss further alleged that Sowore had been evading arrest. “If he is bold enough to show up in Abuja, why can’t he show up in Lagos? Let him come forward and face the law,” he challenged.
The police declaration of Sowore as wanted followed a public disagreement that erupted on November 3, after the announcement was made. In response, Sowore, a well-known human rights campaigner and founder of the online news platform Sahara Reporters, described the police’s action as unconstitutional.
In his statement, Sowore argued that no police officer, including a commissioner, had the legal right to declare an individual wanted without a warrant issued by a competent court. He also claimed the declaration was retaliation for police officers’ alleged failure to execute a “shoot-at-sight” order during the Oworonshoki protest.
However, CP Jimoh maintained that the police acted within their constitutional powers to preserve peace and security in Lagos State.
“Under Section 215, subsections 1(b), 4, and 5 of the Nigerian Constitution, I have the power to protect lives and property and maintain law and order. I deem it fit to declare Sowore wanted because of his threat to the peace and welfare of Lagos residents,” Jimoh stated.
He also clarified that the temporary closure of Berger Bus Stop was a preventive measure to avoid potential unrest and that normal traffic resumed by 3:00 p.m. daily.
Jimoh assured residents that Lagos remains safe and under tight security monitoring. “The entire Lagos is safe. We are on the ground 24/7 to ensure residents go about their lawful businesses without fear,” he added.
