The Lagos State Police Command has reiterated that the state remains peaceful and secure despite reports of protest activities in certain parts of the country.
Addressing members of the press during a Show of Force exercise conducted on Monday in Ikeja, the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olohundare Jimoh, affirmed that the exercise formed part of the Command’s proactive strategy to reassure residents of their safety and to demonstrate its operational readiness to preserve public order across the metropolis.
According to the Commissioner, the Command has effected strategic deployments of personnel to all known flashpoints previously associated with protest gatherings, including the Lekki Toll Gate, Ojota, Maryland, and the Gani Fawehinmi Park, among other key locations.
“We want residents to understand that Lagos is safe, and they can continue to go about their lawful businesses without fear. Adequate deployments have been made to all identifiable points where protesters previously assembled,”
the Commissioner stated.
Mr. Jimoh further explained that the Show of Force operation was primarily intended to deter potential troublemakers and to ensure that no group or individual undermines public peace under the guise of lawful protest.
“Peaceful protests are permissible under the law; however, when such activities degenerate into lawlessness or infringe upon the rights of other citizens, they cease to qualify as legitimate expressions of dissent. The Command will not tolerate any act capable of breaching the peace,”
he warned.
The Commissioner also disclosed that all Area Commands and Divisions within the state have been directed to provide situation reports at 15-minute intervals to facilitate real-time monitoring and rapid response to emerging developments.
He noted that, as of the time of briefing, there were no reports of unrest, obstruction of vehicular movement, or attacks in any part of the state, emphasizing that areas such as Ojota, Maryland, and Lekki remained calm, with security operatives maintaining visible patrols.
“Lagos remains safe, peaceful, and free from any form of protest-related disturbance. The Command will continue to patrol and monitor all areas to sustain the peace and security currently being enjoyed by residents,”
he assured.
Earlier reports indicated a confrontation between security forces and members of the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow movement, following attempts by demonstrators to demand the release of Mr. Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Security operatives reportedly deployed tear gas to disperse the protesters.
The nationwide demonstration, convened by human rights activist Mr. Omoyele Sowore and endorsed by opposition political figures, seeks the immediate and unconditional release of Mr. Kanu, who is currently facing federal charges including terrorism, treason, and incitement.
The Federal Government maintains that Mr. Kanu engaged in acts promoting the secession of the Biafran region through inflammatory broadcasts and statements disseminated via Radio Biafra and other media platforms.#newsafro_
