Conflicting accounts have emerged over the dramatic confrontation involving activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, at a restaurant in Ado-Ekiti, as the Ekiti State Police Command launches an investigation to unravel what really happened.
While Sowore accused operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and individuals allegedly connected to the Ekiti State Government House of attacking him and members of his team, the police have rejected reports that he was kidnapped, insisting that preliminary findings point to a physical altercation.
The incident, which occurred on Friday in the Dalimore area of the state capital, triggered widespread speculation after reports circulated on social media that armed men had abducted the activist and whisked him away to an unknown destination.
Police Storm Scene, Rescue Activist
In its account of the incident, the police said operatives were alerted to the unfolding confrontation and immediately mobilised to the restaurant.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abutu Sunday, officers successfully rescued Sowore from the scene, although he sustained minor injuries during the encounter.
The police disclosed that the activist was receiving medical attention at the Police Hospital in Ado-Ekiti.
The command maintained that its preliminary assessment did not support claims of kidnapping, describing the incident instead as an altercation between Sowore and some individuals at the restaurant.
However, Sowore’s account presents a different picture of the confrontation.
The activist alleged that DSS operatives and individuals reportedly linked to the Ekiti State Government House were behind the attack on him and members of his entourage.
The allegations have added a political dimension to the incident, raising questions about the circumstances that led to the confrontation and the identities of those involved.
While the police have offered their preliminary account, the allegations made by Sowore are yet to be independently established.
Police Boss Orders Discreet Probe
Determined to establish the facts behind the dramatic encounter, the Commissioner of Police in Ekiti State, Falade Adegoroye Michael, has ordered a discreet investigation.
The probe is expected to uncover what triggered the confrontation, identify those involved and determine whether anyone committed an offence.
The command assured residents that anyone found culpable would face the full weight of the law, irrespective of political affiliation or social standing.
Public Urged Against Panic
Meanwhile, the police have urged members of the public to remain calm and disregard unverified reports claiming that Sowore was kidnapped.
The command warned that the circulation of misleading information could heighten tension and trigger unnecessary panic.
With two conflicting accounts now surrounding the restaurant encounter, attention has shifted to the police investigation, which is expected to provide a clearer picture of what transpired.
For now, the central questions remain: What sparked the confrontation, who was responsible, and will the investigation establish the truth behind the allegations?
