Land Use Charge: Police Read Riot Act to Protesters

Matilda Omonaiye/

Police say they have uncovered plans by some civil rights groups to barricade the Third Mainland Bridge in protest against the controversial Land Use Act.

According to the police, the protesters were also planning to cripple some critical public infrastructures in the state.

Police spokesman in Lagos, SP Chike Oti, disclosed this in statement today.

Police however cautioned those behind the plan, warning to deal with any persons or groups that engage in any act that could jeopardise public peace.

The statement also observed that it is illegal for any group or person to organise public protest without obtaining permission from the police.

The statement reads: “The attention of Lagos State Police Command has been drawn to the news making the rounds that a group of persons under the sponsorship of some mischief makers,who are masquerading as civil rights activists, intend to block the Third Mainland Bridge and occupy some critical public infrastructures in Lagos to protest the increase in the Land Use Charge by the government of Lagos state.

“The command warns those concerned that any attempt by any individual or group of persons to cause a breach of the peace or infringe on the rights of others to pursue their daily aspirations would be met with stiff resistance.

“As it stands, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State has not received a single application from any group wishing to carry out protest in any part of the state. It is therefore advised that these individuals wanting to protest government decision should consult with the police as it was the case with the Nigeria Bar Association before they carried out their very peaceful protest, for which the police provided the needed security and ensured it was not hijacked by hoodlums.

“Once again, the command reiterates that it would not allow any group of protesters to compromise the peace in Lagos State in whatever guise. Any group of persons that feel strongly against any policy of the government should explore the judiciary as an option instead of endangering the public peace.”

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