The controversy surrounding the recent crowd dispersal at Lekki Toll Gate during a candle light procession on September 21, 2023 has elicited explanations from the Lagos State Police Command. According to the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, a Superintendent of Police, the narratives being spread across social media platforms are inaccurate. The Explainer observed that reports have been making the rounds on social media that the dispersal of the crowd was a violation of the rights of citizens to air their grievances over the mysterious demise of talented Afrobeat artiste Mohbad.
According to the Lagos State Police Command, contrary to the narrative being spread on social media that the law enforcement agency trampled on citizens rights, an agreement was reached with the organizers of the candle light procession.
The police further noted that the agreement stated explicitly that the procession would conclude at Muri Okunola in Victoria Island by 8 PM, with the Lekki Toll Gate strictly off-limits. The rationale behind this decision was to ensure the safety of all citizens, considering the heavy traffic along the Lekki-Epe Expressway.
However, the Lagos Police Command narrated that the situation took an unexpected turn when a group of individuals gathered at the Lekki Toll Gate despite the agreed-upon arrangement. “These individuals had intentions beyond the #justiceforMohbad initiative, deviating from the planned procession route and causing concern among authorities. To address the violation of the agreement, the Lagos State Police Command engaged with the procession organizers, who returned to the scene to help persuade the crowd to disperse peacefully.
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“The organizers utilized social media platforms, urging participants to go home and clarifying that the procession had come to a successful conclusion. Despite these efforts and hours of persuasion, both the police and organizers faced defiance from the crowd, resulting in a complete blockade of all lanes in and out of Lekki, paralyzing traffic.
“Faced with a challenging situation and drawing from past experiences, the police deemed it necessary to resort to tear gas as a last resort for crowd dispersal. Notably, no live ammunition was used, and the police followed established crowd management best practices. It is important to highlight that there were no casualties or injuries reported during the dispersal.”
The statement added that the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, had issued a stern warning to mischief makers, emphasizing that any individual or group found disrupting the peace of the state will be promptly arrested and prosecuted according to the law.
“The Lagos State Police Command commends the procession organizers for abiding by the agreement and assures supporters of #justiceforMohbad, as well as the general public, that their safety and security remain top priorities.”
Meanwhile, The Explainer gathered that investigation into the unfortunate death of Mr. Ilerioluwa Aloba also known as Mohbad is progressing well. The police has therefore urged the public to refrain from creating unnecessary distractions and allow the command to conduct a conclusive and timely investigation.
“Throughout this process, the Lagos State Police Command emphasizes the close coordination with various support groups associated with #justiceforMohbad. The command aims to maintain this collaborative effort and will provide regular updates to the public on the investigation’s progress.
“As the facts surrounding the crowd dispersal incident continue to emerge, it is imperative to rely on accurate information and avoid contributing to the spread of misinformation. The police remain committed to upholding the peace and ensuring the safety of all Lagosians.”
