CURRENT REPORT BLOG the Lagos State Police Command is aware of false narratives circulating regarding the crowd dispersal incident at Lekki Toll Gate on September 21, 2023.
It is essential to clarify that the Lagos State Police Command had an agreement with the organizers of the candlelight procession, specifying that the procession would conclude no later than 8 pm at Muri Okunola, Victoria Island. It was explicitly stated that, due to the heavy use of the Lekki-Epe Expressway and in the interest of all Lagosians, the Lekki Toll Gate would be off-limits.
However, it became concerning when, after the procession had concluded at Muri Okunola park as agreed, some individuals began gathering at the Lekki Toll Gate with intentions unrelated to the #justiceforMohbad initiative.
In response to this clear violation of the agreement, the Lagos State Police Command invited the organizers of the procession to join officers in persuading the people at the toll gate to disperse peacefully. Organizers also used social media to communicate that the event was not a protest but a successfully concluded procession, urging everyone to return home. Despite hours of persuasion and appeals from both the police and organizers, some individuals remained defiant, resulting in a complete blockade of all lanes in and out of Lekki and severe traffic congestion on the expressway.
Considering previous similar incidents and being mindful of the potential for chaos and anarchy, the police, in line with our mandate to protect life and property, maintain law and order, and prevent crimes, resorted to the least harmful method of crowd dispersal – the use of teargas. No live ammunition was fired, and the police employed crowd management best practices. Fortunately, no lives were lost, and there were no injuries.
The Lagos State Commissioner of Police issues a stern warning to mischief-makers that anyone disrupting the peace of the state will be promptly arrested and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
The Lagos State Police Command appreciates the cooperation of the procession organizers and assures all supporters of #justiceforMohbad and Lagosians of our commitment to their safety and security.
Regarding the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Mr. Ilerioluwa Aloba, we urge the public to avoid unnecessary distractions and allow the Command to conduct a thorough and timely investigation. We have maintained close communication with #justiceforMohbad support groups and will continue to update the public on the progress of the investigation.
