Sowore Remains Wanted, Lagos Police Vow Arrest

The Lagos State Police have reiterated that activist Omoyele Sowore remains wanted. Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh said authorities will take all legal steps to arrest him.

Sowore was declared wanted on Monday for allegedly “causing a disturbance of public peace and acts to commit a serious felony” by planning to obstruct traffic on the Third Mainland Bridge.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Wednesday, CP Jimoh confirmed that Sowore has not reported to the police. “My declaration that Sowore is wanted is still in force,” he said.

The commissioner explained that Sowore’s lawyer had contacted him by text while he was responding to a riot. The message was forwarded to the Nigerian Police Force’s Officer-in-Charge of Legal for follow-up. “They agreed that Sowore would turn up at the CID because that is where the investigation is being carried out,” Jimoh said.

However, the activist has failed to report as agreed. “We are going to do everything within the ambit of the law to get him arrested, investigated, and prosecuted for these offences,” the commissioner added.

Also read: DSS Files Criminal Charges Against Sowore Over Posts on Tinubu

Jimoh also emphasized that he has the authority to declare Sowore wanted. He said anyone who disagrees could seek redress in court.

Debunking ‘Shoot on Sight’ Claims

CP Jimoh dismissed Sowore’s claims that the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, ordered him to be shot on sight. He described the allegation as “a major misinformation” and “mischievous.”

“The IGP would never give such an order,” Jimoh said. “For what reason would he target anyone across the country?”

The commissioner argued that Sowore’s statement shows an intent to stir public unrest. “That is why I went all out to declare him wanted. For him to say the IGP ordered that he be shot is false and mischievous, which he is known for,” he added.