The South West Youth Alliance (SWYA) has strongly condemned the allegation made by the African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, accusing the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, of ordering a “shoot on sight” directive against him in Oworonshoki, Lagos, on Monday.
In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Adenike Ajanlekoko, and made available to journalists on Tuesday, the group described Sowore’s claim as “reckless, baseless, and mischievous,” aimed at tarnishing the image of a reform-driven and professional police chief.
According to the statement, IGP Egbetokun is too focused on ongoing reforms to reposition the Nigeria Police Force for greater professionalism and public trust to issue such an “irrational and barbaric order.”
“The IGP, Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, is far too professional and committed to transforming the Nigeria Police to give such an order against anyone, let alone a public nuisance like Sowore. His claim is laughable and only exposes his desperation for attention,” the group stated.
SWYA further commended the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Jimoh Moshood, for his professionalism in handling security affairs in the state, stressing that the Lagos Command operates strictly within the law and does not take illegal instructions from anyone.
The group warned against any attempt to provoke unrest in Lagos under the guise of activism, recalling the painful experiences and economic disruption caused by the EndSARS protests.
“Lagosians will not tolerate another wave of lawlessness. Sowore’s attempt to instigate residents of Oworonshoki into needless protests using hoodlums and miscreants to block the Third Mainland Bridge is irresponsible and criminal,” the statement added.
The South West Youth Alliance, while reaffirming its support for IGP Egbetokun and CP Moshood, urged security agencies to remain vigilant and deal decisively with anyone who attempts to breach public peace.
“The law will take its full course against anyone, no matter how highly placed, who obstructs public roads or incites violence,” the group warned.
