Human rights activist and Sahara Reporters publisher, Omoyele Sowore, has criticized the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Adegoke Fayoade, for declaring him wanted, describing the move as unlawful and politically motivated.
Reacting in a statement on Tuesday, Sowore said the police acted in bad faith, alleging that he had repeatedly attempted to reach out to the Lagos Police Command to clarify matters but was ignored.
“I made several calls and sent messages to the Commissioner of Police and other senior officers, but they refused to respond. Instead, they went ahead to declare me wanted without due process,” Sowore said.
He accused the police of spreading false information about his alleged plans to incite unrest in Lagos, insisting that he has always advocated for peaceful civic engagement and constitutional rights.
“The claim that I am plotting to disrupt public peace is baseless,” he stated. “My record speaks for itself — I have never promoted violence or lawlessness. What we stand for is justice and accountability.”
Sowore also challenged the police to produce evidence supporting their accusations, adding that such actions only expose the government’s growing intolerance for dissent.
Meanwhile, the Lagos Police Command has maintained that the declaration followed credible intelligence suggesting plans to organize unauthorized protests. Security analysts, however, have urged both parties to pursue dialogue and ensure the issue is resolved lawfully.
The development adds another layer to the ongoing tension between activists and law enforcement in Nigeria, as rights groups continue to call for restraint, fairness, and respect for democratic freedoms.
