Cynthia Ezegwu
The Lagos State Police Command has assured residents of their safety following reports of a planned disruption on the Third Mainland Bridge by protesting youths from the Oworonshoki area.
In a statement issued on Monday by the State Police Public Relations Officer, Abimbola Adebisi, the command said adequate security measures had been put in place to maintain law and order across the state.
“The command is aware of information circulating regarding a planned disruption on the Third Mainland Bridge by some youths in the Oworonshoki area,” Adebisi said. “We wish to assure the public that adequate security arrangements have been made. Our officers are fully deployed to ensure the safety of all road users and prevent any obstruction or breach of the peace.”
She urged residents to go about their lawful activities without fear, and to cooperate with security personnel on duty, stressing that the command remains committed to protecting lives and property, and ensuring the free flow of traffic across Lagos State.
The reassurance comes amid renewed tension in Oworonshoki following the latest wave of demolitions in the Coker and Ojulari areas around midnight on Saturday. The exercise, which occurred hours after the state government announced compensation for about 80 affected property owners, reportedly saw bulldozers—escorted by armed security operatives—pull down remaining structures in the community.
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Eyewitnesses said the operation was carried out under the cover of darkness, sparking outrage among some residents who accused the government of insensitivity.
Recall that a previous round of demolitions in the area had triggered protests that briefly blocked parts of the Third Mainland Bridge outward Lagos, as aggrieved residents carried placards reading, “Stop demolishing our houses,” and “Give us back our lands.”
It took the intervention of police operatives to disperse the protesters and restore traffic flow at the time.
The police, however, have reiterated their readiness to prevent any recurrence and ensure peace in the affected communities.