Sowore Was Not Kidnapped, Police Clarify Incident In Ado-Ekiti

The Ekiti State Police Command has clarified that the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, was not kidnapped in Ado-Ekiti, but was rescued by police operatives after an altercation with some individuals at a restaurant.

The Command said Sowore sustained minor injuries during the incident and was receiving medical attention at the Police Hospital in Ado-Ekiti.

The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abutu Sunday, disclosed this in a statement while addressing reports circulating on social media that armed thugs had kidnapped the politician and whisked him away to an unknown destination.

According to the police, preliminary information indicated that Sowore had an altercation with some individuals at a restaurant around the Dallimore area of Ado-Ekiti, following which the police were alerted.

“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.

The Command disclosed that the Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, had ordered a discreet investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the altercation, identify those involved and ensure that anyone found culpable was brought to justice.

It urged members of the public to remain calm and refrain from circulating unverified information capable of creating unnecessary panic and tension.

The Command also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property across the state, irrespective of political affiliation, status or background.

However, another report alleged that suspected political thugs had stormed Tawakalitu Restaurant in the Dallimore area of Ado-Ekiti, where Sowore was, and whisked him away to an unknown destination.

Sowore was reportedly in Ekiti State to participate in the annual Ikogosi 17.5-kilometre marathon scheduled for Saturday, October 31, 2026. He also participated in the race last year.

The marathon is scheduled to begin in Ilawe-Ekiti and end at Ikogosi-Ekiti, in Ekiti West Local Government Area of the state.