In a significant development that has captured national attention, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Idowu Owohunwa, has firmly stated that he possesses the legal authority to declare prominent activist and politician Omoyele Sowore as a wanted individual.
The police chief made this declaration during a press briefing at the Lagos State Police Command headquarters, emphasizing that such action would be taken if deemed necessary for ongoing investigations.
Legal Authority Asserted
CP Owohunwa clarified that his position as the Commissioner of Police in Lagos State grants him the constitutional power to declare any person wanted when there are sufficient grounds to believe they may have information crucial to an investigation or pose a threat to public safety.
"The Nigeria Police Force, under my command in Lagos State, has the statutory responsibility to maintain law and order," Owohunwa stated. "When circumstances demand, I have the power to declare anyone wanted in accordance with the law."
Background of the Situation
The statement comes amid growing tensions between security agencies and the activist community in Nigeria. Omoyele Sowore, a well-known human rights activist and former presidential candidate, has been a vocal critic of various government policies and has faced multiple arrests in recent years.
While the police commissioner did not specify immediate plans to declare Sowore wanted, his comments have sparked discussions about the boundaries of police power and activist rights in Nigeria's democracy.
Public Reaction and Implications
Civil society organizations and human rights advocates have expressed concern over the commissioner's statements, warning against the potential misuse of police powers to target government critics.
Meanwhile, supporters of strong law enforcement have backed the commissioner's position, arguing that maintaining public safety sometimes requires decisive action from security agencies.
The situation continues to develop as both sides monitor the police's next moves and Sowore's response to these declarations from the Lagos police leadership.
