Ekiti govt denies role in attack on Sowore

The Ekiti State Government has denied involvement in the reported attack on African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, at a food outlet in Ado-Ekiti on Friday.

The government described allegations linking it to the incident as unfounded and called on the police to investigate the circumstances surrounding the reported altercation and prosecute anyone found responsible.

In a statement on Saturday, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Olayinka Oyebode, said the state government had no connection with the incident and rejected suggestions that it was responsible for harassing or intimidating the politician.

Oyebode said the organisers of the Ikogosi Marathon and the Ekiti State Police Command had issued statements on the incident, adding that the government would leave the determination of what happened to the appropriate authorities.

He, however, questioned the circumstances surrounding Sowore’s visit and the reported altercation, while insisting that the government would not interfere with investigations.

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The statement also dismissed the suggestion that the state government would target a presidential candidate, arguing that Ekiti had maintained a peaceful political environment during its recent governorship campaign and election.

“The Ekiti State Government therefore dissociates itself totally from the incident and calls on the Police authorities to conduct a thorough investigation, identify those responsible and ensure that they are brought to justice,” the statement said.

The government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights and safety of residents and visitors, regardless of their political affiliations or opinions.

It also pledged to uphold the rule of law, democratic principles and tolerance of diverse political views.