Eniola Yekini
The Ekiti State Police Command has debunked reports circulating on social media that the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, AAC, Mr Omoyele Sowore, was kidnapped by armed thugs in Ado-Ekiti.
The Command described the reports as false and misleading.
In a statement on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abutu Sunday, said Sowore was not kidnapped.
According to the statement, preliminary information showed that Sowore had an altercation with some individuals at a restaurant around Dalimore area in Ado-Ekiti, after 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 Commissioner of Police, Ekiti State Command, CP Falade Adegoroye Michael, has ordered a discreet investigation into the incident to establish the full circumstances surrounding the altercation, identify all individuals involved and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice.
The Command urged members of the public to disregard the alleged kidnap narrative and refrain from circulating unverified information capable of creating panic and tension.
“The Command calls for calm and urges members of the public to disregard the misleading narrative of an alleged kidnapping and refrain from circulating unverified information capable of creating unnecessary panic and tension,” it said.
The police reassured the public of its commitment to protecting lives and property irrespective of political affiliation, status or background, and to maintaining law and order across the state.