The Ekiti State Police Command has dismissed reports that the African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, was kidnapped by armed men in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital.
Sowore had accused operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and individuals allegedly linked to the Ekiti State Government House of being behind an attack on him and members of his team at a restaurant in the state on Friday.
Earlier reports circulating on social media claimed that the AAC presidential candidate for the 2027 presidential election had been abducted by armed men and taken to an undisclosed location.
However, the police clarified that the incident was an altercation between Sowore and some individuals at a restaurant in the Dalimore area of Ado-Ekiti.
According to the command, police operatives were alerted to the incident and swiftly mobilised to the scene, where they successfully rescued the activist.
The police added that Sowore sustained minor injuries during the confrontation and was receiving medical attention at the Police Hospital in Ado-Ekiti.
The clarification was contained in a statement issued on Friday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abutu Sunday.
The statement noted that preliminary findings indicated that the incident was an altercation rather than a kidnapping, contrary to reports circulating on social media.
It stated: “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.”
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in Ekiti State, Falade Adegoroye Michael, has ordered a discreet investigation into the incident to establish the circumstances surrounding the confrontation and identify those involved.
The command assured the public that anyone found culpable would be brought to justice.
It also urged residents to remain calm and disregard unverified reports suggesting that Sowore had been kidnapped, warning that the circulation of misleading information could trigger unnecessary panic and tension.
The police further reiterated their commitment to protecting lives and property across the state, irrespective of political affiliation or social status.
