The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, has stirred major controversy after defending his decision to declare activist and Sahara Reporters publisher, Omoyele Sowore, wanted. Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Wednesday, November 5, Jimoh insisted that his action was lawful and within his constitutional powers to maintain peace and order in the state.
“I have the right to declare him wanted. Anyone who disagrees should go to court,” Jimoh boldly stated. He explained that security intelligence revealed plans for a “violent protest” allegedly being organized by Sowore and his supporters, including efforts to block the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos.
According to the police chief, officers had been monitoring Sowore’s posts on social media (X), where he reportedly hinted at traveling to Lagos after taking a “bath in Abuja.” Jimoh said the police quickly mobilized, arrested 13 suspects, and seized a vehicle loaded with loudspeakers and a generator believed to be intended for the protest.
The commissioner emphasized that he acted under the Nigerian Constitution to prevent crime and protect lives and property, clarifying that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) never directed him to declare Sowore wanted. “The IGP has not given such an order to me or any command in the country,” he said.
Meanwhile, Sowore has fired back, calling the declaration illegal and unconstitutional, insisting that only a court can issue a warrant declaring someone wanted. He further alleged that police attempted to ambush him under a ‘shoot-at-sight’ order, which Jimoh has strongly denied.
The dramatic clash has since dominated national conversations, with Nigerians divided over whether the police acted within the law or overstepped their bounds.
