Ekiti police dismiss Sowore’s kidnap claims, say activist was rescued after restaurant clash
By Boye Oyeyemi
The Ekiti State Police Command has dismissed reports that African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, was kidnapped by armed men in Ado-Ekiti, saying he was rescued by police operatives following an altercation at a restaurant.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abutu Sunday, disclosed this in a statement, adding that Sowore sustained minor injuries during the incident and was receiving treatment at the Police Hospital in Ado-Ekiti.
According to the command, preliminary findings indicated that the incident occurred at a restaurant in the Dallimore area of the state capital, where the activist reportedly had a disagreement with some individuals.
The police said operatives were alerted to the incident and promptly moved to the scene, where they intervened and rescued Sowore from the situation.
“Upon receiving the report, police operatives swiftly mobilised to the scene and successfully rescued him. He, however, sustained a minor injury and is currently receiving medical attention at the Police Hospital, Ado-Ekiti,” the statement said.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, has ordered a discreet investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident, identify those involved and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice.
The command’s clarification followed reports on social media alleging that armed men had attacked Sowore at the restaurant and whisked him away to an undisclosed location. However, the police urged members of the public to disregard unverified information capable of causing panic.
Sowore was reportedly in Ekiti State to participate in the 17.5-kilometre Ikogosi Marathon scheduled for Saturday, October 31. The race is expected to begin in Ilawe-Ekiti and end at Ikogosi-Ekiti.
