By BONIFACE AKARAH

The Ekiti State Police Command has dismissed reports that African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, was kidnapped by armed thugs in Ado-Ekiti, saying he was rescued after an altercation with some individuals at a restaurant.

The police made the clarification in a press statement signed by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Abutu Sunday, on Friday, October 30, 2026, following the circulation of social media reports claiming that Sowore had been abducted and his whereabouts were unknown.

According to the Command, preliminary information indicated that Sowore was involved in an altercation with some individuals at a restaurant around the Dalimore area of Ado-Ekiti, after which the police were alerted.

The statement said: “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 Commissioner of Police in Ekiti State, CP Falade Adegoroye Michael, has ordered a discreet investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify those involved.

The Command said the investigation would ensure that anyone found culpable was brought to justice.

It urged members of the public to remain calm and disregard reports describing the incident as a kidnapping.

“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,” the statement added.

The police also reaffirmed their commitment to protecting lives and property regardless of political affiliation, status or background, assuring residents of continued efforts to maintain law and order across the state.

The Command did not disclose the identities of the individuals involved in the altercation or provide further details about what led to the incident.