Lagos Police Clarifies Arrest of Nine at Ojota: “Not Protesters, But Troublemakers,” Says CP Ishola

Matilda Omonaiye/

The Police in Lagos have dispelled reports circulating that protesters were arrested at Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park, Ojota, yesterday.

In a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, the command clarified that the individuals apprehended were not part of any legitimate protest but were instead inciting trouble under the guise of protesters.

According to the statement, the Commissioner of Police (CP) Olanrewaju Ishola, had proactively engaged with the organizers of a scheduled protest beforehand. On September 27, 2024, he held a meeting with civil society organizations and the protest leaders, who assured the police that their October 1, 2024, protest would be peaceful. The protest on Independence Day went smoothly, with police providing security throughout.

However, the police noted that those arrested at Ojota the day after the protest were not part of the officially recognized demonstration.

“Their conduct was not only inciting but was aimed at fomenting trouble,” the statement says.

A total of nine individuals were arrested, and the police recovered a Toyota pickup truck with registration number SRA 813 XB from the scene.

Hundeyin stated that the suspects—ranging in age from 21 to 60—will be charged with conduct likely to cause a breach of peace.

The police reassured Lagos residents that it remains committed to ensuring their safety and will take necessary actions to maintain public order.

The Lagos State Police Command has urged citizens to remain law-abiding and avoid actions that could compromise the peace and security of the state.

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