The Lagos State Police Command says that normalcy has been fully restored on the Third Mainland Bridge following a protest staged by residents of Oworo over demolitions in their area.
The deputy spokesperson of the command and a Deputy Superintendent of Police, DSP Babaseyi Oluseyi, made this known in a statement on Monday in Lagos.
He said that the protesters had blocked the section of the bridge near Iyana Oworo Bus Stop, obstructing movement from the Island to the Mainland.
Oluseyi said that upon receiving the information, the Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, swiftly moved to the scene alongside detachments of the Mobile Police Force and Tactical Units.
He said: “His presence was to ensure immediate engagement, de-escalation, and the protection of lives and property.
“CP Jimoh personally interfaced with the protesters in a bid to understand their grievances and persuade them to vacate the bridge.”
The image maker said that when the Commissioner’s appeal failed and the road remained blocked, he ordered the use of minimal force to disperse the crowd.
Oluseyi added: “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, CP Jimoh 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.”