Lagos CP Breaks Silence on Makoko, Oworonshoki Protests: “I Did Not Supervise Any Beating
By our Correspondent
“Lagos CP Olohundare Jimoh denies supervising police brutality during Makoko and Oworonshoki protests, blames misinformation and land grabbers, and warns against violent demonstrations in Lagos.”
The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Moshood Jimoh, has dismissed allegations of police brutality linked to recent protests by alleged Maroko, Makoko and Oworonshoki evictees, warning residents to beware of criminal elements hiding under the guise of civil agitation.
Speaking during a visit to the Owode Onirin Motor Parts Market, the Police boss addressed rising tension following protests fueled by misinformation over the alleged demolition of the Owode market and eviction fears in Makoko and Oworonshoki.
CP Jimoh described the protest at the Lagos State House of Assembly on Wednesday as violent and deliberately orchestrated to destabilise the state, insisting that it was not led by genuine victims.
“I have policed hundreds of peaceful protests in Lagos. What happened on Wednesday was a complete departure,” he said.
According to him, the protest was allegedly coordinated by Taiwo Hassan and Dele Frank, who attempted to involve schoolchildren by removing them from classrooms while still in uniform—an act the CP described as dangerous and contrary to international standards.
He also revealed that protesters brought a coffin to the scene, which he said exposed a hidden agenda.
“Anyone who brings a coffin to a protest is not seeking peace,” he added.
OWODE MARKET DEMOLITION: POLICE NAME LAND GRABBER
Addressing claims that the Lagos State Government demolished Owode market structures, CP Jimoh clarified that the destruction was carried out by a land grabber, identified as Akeem Abiodun Ariyori, who illegally deployed armed men and police officers from outside Lagos.
“He brought police personnel from Nasarawa State against the IGP’s directives. Those officers have been detained and will be prosecuted alongside him,” the CP disclosed.
No Shooting, No Supervised Beating – CP
Responding to accusations of excessive force, CP Jimoh insisted that no live ammunition was used during the protest.
“I did not supervise the beating of anyone. No rifle was fired. Arrests were made only after a truck was used to block a major highway for hours,” he said.
He stressed that while the police will always protect peaceful protesters, actions that paralyse the state, block roads, or endanger lives will not be tolerated.
TRADERS DISTANCE THEMSELVES FROM VIOLENT PROTEST
The Chairman of the Owode Onirin Motor Parts Market, Mr. Abiodun Hammed, distanced traders from the protest, noting that the market community is known for peaceful advocacy.
“We went there, but we didn’t know some people had a different mission. What happened was not our style,” he said.
Another trader leader, Mr. Abiodun Abe, recalled an earlier attack on traders by suspected land-grabber agents in August, crediting the CP for intervening and restoring security.
“Since the Commissioner stepped in, we have worked peacefully without disturbance,” he stated.
CP Jimoh concluded by reaffirming the Command’s commitment to justice and public safety.
“No land grabber will be protected under my watch. Lagosians will be safe,” he said.
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