Tension Builds As Police Begin Show Of Force In Lagos; Storm Lekki, Ojota Over Protest Fears
The Lagos State Police Command has moved to reassure residents that the state remains calm and secure, despite reports of protests in parts of the country.
Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, gave the assurance on Monday during a “Show of Force” exercise in Ikeja, aimed at demonstrating the command’s readiness to maintain peace and order.
Jimoh said police operatives had been strategically deployed to key flashpoints, including the Lekki Toll Gate, Ojota, Maryland, and Gani Fawehinmi Park — to forestall any breakdown of law and order.
“We want residents to know they are safe and can go about their lawful businesses without fear. We have made proper deployments to all identifiable points where protesters used to gather in the past,” he said.
The police boss explained that the “Show of Force” was not to intimidate citizens, but to deter mischief makers and ensure that no group of individuals disrupts public peace under the guise of protests.
“Protests are allowed anywhere in the world, but when you take laws into your hands and disrupt public peace, that is no longer a protest,” he warned.
Jimoh further directed all police formations across the state to submit situation reports every 15 minutes for real-time monitoring.
He confirmed that, as of Monday afternoon, there were no reports of unrest, traffic disruptions, or violence in any part of Lagos, stressing that officers were maintaining a visible presence in major areas.
“Lagos is safe, peaceful, and free of any form of protest. We will continue to patrol and monitor all areas to sustain the peace residents are enjoying,” he said.
Earlier, tension flared in parts of the country following clashes between security operatives and #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protesters demanding the release of detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
The demonstration, convened by activist Omoyele Sowore and backed by opposition parties, has seen heavy police deployment nationwide.
