Activist Hassan Soweto begins physiotherapy after brutal assault by Lagos Police
By Ishaya Ibrahim
Human rights activist and Lagos coordinator of the #EndBadGovernance Movement, Hassan Taiwo Soweto, has begun physiotherapy to recover from injuries allegedly sustained in a brutal police assault during a January 28, 2026, anti-demolition protest at the Lagos State House of Assembly.
In a statement released on Thursday, Soweto revealed that a recent MRI scan confirmed the severe impact of the assault on his lower spine and other areas.
He began physiotherapy sessions on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, with treatment expected to continue for several weeks. Soweto expressed optimism about a full recovery, stating that his doctors are hopeful he will soon regain full mobility and resume his activism.
Soweto was allegedly attacked by police officers, led by Lagos State Commissioner of Police Jimoh Moshood, while heading a protest against forced evictions and demolitions in vulnerable Lagos communities, including Makoko, Oworonshoki, Owode Onirin, Ajegunle, and others.
Police dispersed the crowd with tear gas, injuring several protesters—some requiring hospitalization at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH). Soweto and fellow activist Dele Frank (also known as Arole Fela) were arrested and later arraigned at Yaba Chief Magistrate’s Court on charges including conspiracy, conduct likely to cause breach of public peace, unlawful assembly, obstruction of traffic, and singing abusive songs against the police and Lagos State government.
Soweto accused Commissioner Moshood and his officers of personally leading the assault, which left him with torn clothes, broken glasses, and serious physical trauma.
Despite his ordeal, Soweto highlighted positive outcomes from the protest. He noted that the Lagos State government has halted demolitions in Makoko and initiated negotiations with the community on compensation, rebuilding, and resettlement. He pledged continued monitoring to prevent any shortchanging of residents and warned of further protests if promises are not honored.
