- Safiu Kehinde
The Lagos State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of two anti-demolition protesters over alleged breach of public peace during their demonstration.
NPO Reported that the protesters largely, comprising of aggrieved residents of Makoko and Oworonshoki areas who were largely affected by the state government’s house demolition exercise over the past few months, had assembled at the state House of Assembly to express their grievances over the demolition of their houses.
The protest which saw the agitators marched from Ikeja under bridge down to Alausa would however turn violent as police operatives fired tear-gas to disperse the crowd.
In the defense of its officers’ action, the Command’s spokesperson, Abimbola Adebisi, held that the protesters were dispersed over threats to public safety and the obstruction of free movement after hours of disruption along Awolowo Way and adjoining roads.
“The action caused severe traffic congestion, prevented residents from accessing hospitals and the airport, and disrupted economic activities in the area.
“The protesters carried a coffin, used loudspeakers, and instigated what it described as violence and public disorder, creating panic among motorists and residents.
“Reports were received of sick persons fainting in their vehicles as a result of being trapped in traffic.
“Officers exercised restraint while attempting to manage the situation and restore order, ” she said.
Adebisi said that on arrival at the Lagos State House of Assembly, police prevented the protesters from forcing their way into the premises.
“Five members of the House of Assembly later came out to engage the protesters and offered dialogue, assuring them that their grievances will be forwarded to appropriate authorities.
“The protesters rejected the appeal and further barricaded the highway in front of the Assembly complex, preventing access to other parts of Alausa,” she said.
The image maker said that following continued defiance and threats to public order, officers dispersed the crowd using teargas.
She said that no deaths or injuries were recorded during the operation and that normalcy was restored shortly afterward.
The spokesperson thereafter confirmed the arrest of two individuals at the scene.
“They are being investigated for conspiracy, incitement, obstruction of traffic, and conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace, among other offences under the Criminal Law of Lagos State.
“A white Toyota Canta vehicle fitted with loudspeakers and generator sets, as well as a coffin used during the protest, were recovered as exhibits,” she said.
Adebisi reiterated the command’s support for the right to peaceful protest and freedom of expression but warned that actions capable of disrupting public peace, safety, and livelihoods would not be tolerated.
According to her, the suspects are currently under investigation at the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, and are expected to be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.