In a recent statement, the Lagos State Police Command defended their decision to employ teargas to disband supporters of the late singer Mohbad, who gathered at the Lekki tollgate for a candlelight procession.

According to the police, the approved venue for the event was Muri Okunola Park on Victoria Island, with the understanding that the procession would conclude by 8 p.m.

However, after the event concluded at the agreed-upon location and time, a group with ulterior motives gathered at the Lekki tollgate, causing traffic disruptions. Benjamin Hundeyin, the command’s spokesperson, emphasised that teargas were used as a last resort. He stated that the police and the event organisers pleaded with the group to clear the road, but their requests were not heeded.

Hundeyin confirmed that there were no casualties or injuries due to the dispersal. He clarified, “Not a single live ammunition was fired,” and stressed that the police followed crowd management best practices throughout the encounter.

The statement further explained that the decision to use teargas was based on prior experiences and a thorough assessment of the situation. The police were determined to uphold public safety, prevent disorder, and maintain traffic flow on the Lekki-Epe Expressway.

Hundeyin called for calm and assured the public that the investigation into Mohbad's death was progressing smoothly.

He urged everyone to avoid unnecessary disruptions and allow the police to conduct a thorough and timely investigation.