POLICE INTERVENE IN 3RD MAINLAND BRIDGE PROTEST

Some residents of the Oworonshoki area of Lagos State yesterday staged a protest on the Third Mainland Bridge, thereby obstructing the free flow of traffic the ever-busy route.

During the demonstration, which lasted for some hours, the protesters complained about alleged unlawful demolition of residential structures in the area by officials of the Lagos State Government.

It took the intervention of the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, OLOHUNDARE JIMOH, who moblised to the scene, together with detachments of Mobile Police Force, Tactical Units, and Police Mobile Force, to restore normalcy in the axis.

The Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, DSP BABASEYI OLUSEYI, disclosed in a statement that CP JOMOH had to order the use of minimal force to disperse the protesters, clear the barricades on the expressway and restore free flow of traffic on the bridge.

"The Commissioner of Police personally interfaced with the protesters in a bid to understand their grievances and persuade them to vacate the bridge. Despite his appeals, the protesters remained adamant, resulting in continued blockage of the busy route and worsening the distress of commuters, including reports of sick individuals trapped in traffic who required urgent medical attention.

"In the interest of public safety and to avert further breakdown of law and order, the Commissioner of Police directed the use of minimal force to disperse the crowd. Barricades erected by the protesters were dismantled, traffic obstructions were cleared, and the free flow of vehicles was restored without any loss of life.

"The Lagos State Police Command reassures the public of its neutrality and unwavering commitment to maintaining law, order, and peace across the State. The Command also calls on residents to always channel their grievances through lawful means while assuring that the police remain dedicated to protecting the rights of all citizens."