By Akinsuroju Abiodun Olubunmi
Lagos Police Disperse Mohbad’s Sympathizers with Tear Gas at Lekki Toll Gate
The Lagos State police command has explained their actions in dispersing sympathizers who had gathered to mourn the passing of the late singer, Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, at the Lekki Toll Gate. The move was made to prevent a recurrence of the EndSARS protests.
In an official statement signed by Benjamin Hundeyin, the Lagos Police Public Relations Officer, it was clarified that there had been an agreement between the police and the organizers of the procession, stipulating that the Lekki Toll Gate was not to be used as a gathering point. This agreement was followed during the procession, but some individuals later violated it by assembling there.
Efforts were made by both the police and the organizers to convince the sympathizers to disperse peacefully, but these attempts proved unsuccessful. This led to the police resorting to the use of tear gas to protect lives and property in the area.
The statement emphasized that the Lagos State Police Command had explicitly stated that the Lekki Toll Gate was off-limits, considering its significant use on the Lekki-Epe Expressway and for the well-being of all Lagosians.
After the procession concluded at Muri Okunola park, some individuals gathered at the Lekki Toll Gate with intentions unrelated to the #justiceforMohbad initiative. The police invited the procession organizers to join in persuading people to disperse, and messages were sent out on social media urging everyone to go home, clarifying that it was a procession, not a protest.
Despite these efforts, there was defiance, both in words and action. All lanes in and out of Lekki were blocked, causing a complete standstill in vehicular movement.
In response to this situation, the police decided to use tear gas as the least harmful method of crowd dispersal, as they had learned from previous encounters. No live ammunition was used, and the police applied crowd management best practices to engage the unruly crowd. Fortunately, there were no casualties or injuries.
The Lagos State Police Command warned against any attempt to disturb the peace of the state under the guise of Mohbad’s death. Mischief makers will be promptly arrested and prosecuted.
The ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mohbad’s death is progressing well. The public is urged not to create unnecessary distractions and to allow the Command the space to conduct a conclusive and timely investigation.
The Lagos State Police Command assured all supporters of #justiceforMohbad and Lagosians in general that their safety and security will be a top priority.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police appreciates the procession organizers for cooperating with the Command, and the Command promises to maintain close and regular communication with all meaningful support groups of #justiceforMohbad. The public will be continuously updated on the progress of the investigation.
In a report, protesters and fans of the late Nigerian singer, Mohbad, were allegedly dispersed with tear gas at the Lekki Tollgate in Lagos State. The demonstrators held a candlelight procession in honor of the late singer.