Lagos Police Disperse Violent Protesters, Arrest Two Leaders After Awolowo Way Blockage
By Bello Nuratu
The Lagos State Police Command on Tuesday intervened to restore law and order after a group of violent protesters blocked Awolowo Way to the House of Assembly Road for over six hours, causing widespread disruption to traffic and public activities.
The protesters, who had earlier gathered at the Ikeja Under Bridge, reportedly carried a coffin as they marched through the area, preventing residents from commuting to work, accessing medical facilities, and traveling to the airport. The blockage created panic and trauma in Ikeja and Alausa, with reports of some people fainting in their vehicles.
According to the Lagos Police, officers exercised restraint in confronting the demonstrators, employing only minimal force, including teargas, to disperse them and reopen the road. “The Police concern is for law and order to prevail, to ensure public safety and protection of lives and property of millions of other Lagosians that go about their lawful duties and other responsibilities peacefully,” the Command stated.
At the Lagos State House of Assembly, officers prevented the protesters from breaching the gate and causing damage. Despite appeals by five lawmakers for peaceful dialogue, the protesters continued to block the public highway. The Police said the demonstration, led by Taiwo Hassan, known as ‘Soweto,’ escalated into a serious public disturbance.
Two protest leaders, Taiwo Hassan and Dele Frank, were arrested for conspiracy, inciting violence, obstructing traffic, and other criminal offenses under Lagos State law. A white Toyota Canta with loudspeakers and generators used in the blockade, along with the coffin, were seized as evidence. Investigations are ongoing at the State Criminal Investigation Department in Panti, and the suspects will be charged to court upon completion of inquiries.
The Lagos Police emphasized that the operation was carried out strictly in line with the law. “The right to protest and freedom of expression is one of the essentials of democracy,” the Command said, “but it must be exercised peacefully without causing undue hardship on the general public or jeopardizing the protection of lives and property.”
No deaths or injuries were reported among the protesters during the dispersal, and normalcy has been restored along the affected routes.