The Lagos State Police Commissioner, Jimoh Moshood Olohundare, has defended the recent decision by the Lagos State Police Command to declare activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore “wanted,” stating that the action is fully within his constitutional powers. The Commissioner’s statement comes amid growing public debate about the legal basis for such declarations and their implications for civil liberties and freedom of expression in Nigeria.
Speaking to reporters, Commissioner Olohundare clarified that the declaration did not arise from any instruction by the Inspector-General of Police or the federal police hierarchy. “The IGP has not given any directive in this regard,” he emphasized. According to the Commissioner, the move was prompted by intelligence received by the Lagos State Police Command indicating that Sowore and some associates were allegedly planning activities that could potentially disrupt public order in Lagos State.
The intelligence, as outlined by the Commissioner, suggested that Sowore was planning demonstrations in highly strategic locations across Lagos, including the Third Mainland Bridge, Lekki Toll Gate, and Freedom Park. The Commissioner explained that the planned activities, if carried out, could have led to severe traffic disruptions and posed a threat to public safety. In response to this perceived threat, the police deemed it necessary to declare Sowore wanted to facilitate his apprehension and prevent any potential escalation.
Commissioner Olohundare emphasized that the powers granted to a state Commissioner of Police under Nigerian law allow him to take necessary action to preserve law and order within his jurisdiction. He maintained that the declaration was made in accordance with these powers, highlighting the responsibility of the police to protect lives and property and ensure public safety. He also noted that thirteen suspects had already been arrested in connection with the planned activities, and investigations were ongoing to ensure accountability.
However, Sowore has strongly rejected the declaration, describing it as unconstitutional and an attempt to intimidate him and other activists. Through his legal representatives and social media channels, Sowore argued that only a court of law has the authority to formally declare an individual “wanted.” He further claimed that the declaration was made without due process and infringed on his fundamental rights as a citizen, including the rights to protest and freedom of expression.
Legal experts and civil rights organizations have also weighed in, warning that unilateral declarations by police commissioners could set a dangerous precedent in a democratic society. They argue that without clear judicial oversight, such declarations could be misused to target political opponents, activists, or individuals exercising their right to peaceful assembly. “The rule of law must guide every action taken by security agencies. Declaring someone wanted without a court order undermines due process and civil liberties,” said one legal analyst.
The controversy surrounding Sowore’s declaration has drawn national attention, highlighting the delicate balance between maintaining public order and respecting citizens’ constitutional rights. Observers note that Lagos State, being Nigeria’s commercial hub, presents unique challenges for law enforcement due to its dense population and critical infrastructure. Decisions made by the police in such contexts are often closely scrutinized by the public, media, and civil society groups.
As it stands, no court order has been issued mandating Sowore’s inclusion on any official wanted list, and his current whereabouts remain publicly unspecified. Sowore has indicated his intention to engage directly with the Lagos State Police Commissioner to resolve the matter, while also signaling potential legal challenges to protect his rights. The outcome of this dispute may have broader implications for the policing of protests and political activism across Nigeria.
In conclusion, Commissioner Olohundare has insisted that his actions were within the constitutional framework provided to his office, highlighting the duty of the police to maintain law and order. Meanwhile, Sowore and his supporters continue to contest the legal validity of the declaration, raising critical questions about civil liberties, due process, and the limits of police authority in Nigeria. The case underscores the ongoing tension between state security measures and the protection of individual freedoms in the country, and its resolution may set an important precedent for future interactions between activists and law enforcement agencies.
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