- Safiu Kehinde
The Lagos Stat Police Command has dispersed the protesting Oworonshoki residents from the Third Mainland bridge, restoring normalcy has after hours of traffic gridlock caused by the protesters over demolitions in their area.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Monday by the command Deputy spokesperson, DSP Babaseyi Oluseyi.
According to Oluseyi, the protesters had blocked the section of the bridge near Iyana Oworo Bus Stop, obstructing movement from the Island to the Mainland.
The police spokesperson said that upon receiving the information, the Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, swiftly moved to the scene alongside detachments of the Mobile Police Force, Tactical Units, and Police Mobile Force personnel.
“His presence was to ensure immediate engagement, de-escalation, and the protection of lives and property.
“CP Jimoh personally interfaced with the protesters in a bid to understand their grievances and persuade them to vacate the bridge,” he said.
However, the commissioner’s appeal failed, and the road remained blocked, leading to his order of minimal force to disperse the crowd.
“Despite his appeals, the protesters remained adamant, resulting in continued blockage of the busy route and worsening the distress of commuters, including reports of sick individuals trapped in traffic who required urgent medical attention.
“In the interest of public safety and to avert further breakdown of law and order, CP Jimoh directed the use of minimal force to disperse the crowd.
“Barricades erected by the protesters were dismantled, traffic obstructions were cleared, and the free flow of vehicles was restored without any loss of life,” the spokesperson said.
According to Oluseyi, the command reassures the public of its neutrality and unwavering commitment to maintaining law, order, and peace across the state.
He called on residents to always channel their grievances through lawful means while assuring that the police remained dedicated to protecting the rights of all citizens.