Police Arrest 11 Suspects Following Violent Attack on Sowore and His Team in Ekiti

The Ekiti State Police Command has arrested 11 suspects in connection with the alleged attack on Omoyele Sowore, presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), and members of his entourage at a restaurant in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital.

The arrests followed an investigation into the incident, which occurred on Friday, October 30, 2026, at Tawakalitu Restaurant in the Dalimore area of Ado-Ekiti.

The police announced the development on Saturday, October 31, confirming that operatives of the Rapid Response Squad apprehended the suspects following what the command described as credible intelligence.

According to the police, the suspects were arrested at their hideouts in the Atikankan area of Ado-Ekiti at approximately 10:00 p.m. on Friday.

The operation was reportedly carried out after security personnel received information that helped them identify and locate individuals suspected of having connections with the incident.

The arrest of the 11 suspects represents a major development in the investigation into the attack on Sowore and other individuals who were present at the restaurant.

The police said the suspects had been taken into custody, while investigations were continuing to establish their individual roles, determine whether they were connected to the incident and identify other persons who might have participated.

The suspects were identified as Joseph Tayo, 32; Olatunji Abayomi, 41; Isaac Amba, 22; Kehinde Ajigbana, 18; Tosin David, 18; Solomon Iyanu, 18; Ogunsola Ayomide, 21; Ojo Ayodeji, 22; Kayode Dada, 32; Segun Olatunji, 28; and Salami Emmanuel, 53.

During the operation, police said several items were recovered from the suspects, including two walkie-talkies, 13 mobile phones, seven ATM cards, two vehicle keys and a flash drive.

Other items reportedly recovered included an MTN 5G Wi-Fi device, identity cards, eight international passports, three complimentary cards, a gas lighter and ₦250.

The police also disclosed that substances suspected to be Indian hemp and Colorado, two cannabis grinders, a pack of Rizla rolling papers and two items suspected to be criminal charms were among the recovered materials.

Authorities said the recovered items would form part of the ongoing investigation as officers work to determine whether they have any connection with the alleged attack.

The Commissioner of Police in Ekiti State, Falade Adegoroye Michael, assured residents that the command would continue investigating the incident and ensure that anyone found culpable was brought before the law.

The police also appealed to members of the public to remain calm and provide credible information that could assist investigators in identifying other individuals connected with the incident.

The arrest came after Sowore publicly raised concerns about an alleged attack on him and members of his team while they were in Ado-Ekiti for political engagements.

The activist had travelled to the state as part of activities connected with his political campaign ahead of the 2027 general election.

Reports indicated that the incident occurred after he participated in an interview with Midas FM 90.5 in Ado-Ekiti.

Sowore and members of his entourage were reportedly at Tawakalitu Restaurant when the incident took place.

The presidential hopeful subsequently alleged that armed individuals attacked him and his team, claiming that the incident was more serious than the description initially provided by the police.

He also accused security operatives of being involved in the alleged attack and questioned the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The allegations generated public reactions and renewed discussions about the safety of opposition politicians, particularly during political activities and campaign engagements.

However, the allegations against the police and other individuals have not been independently established, and investigations are ongoing.

The Ekiti State Police Command initially described the incident as an altercation involving Sowore and some individuals at the restaurant.

According to the command, officers responded to a distress call and attended to the situation.

The police also said Sowore and other affected individuals received medical attention following the incident.

Sowore rejected the police description, insisting that he and members of his team had been attacked rather than involved in an ordinary disagreement.

The disagreement between the activist and the police subsequently became a major part of the public discussion surrounding the incident.

Sowore alleged that the attackers were politically motivated and claimed that government-linked individuals were involved.

He further accused the Department of State Services of providing assistance to those responsible for the attack.

The allegations have not been independently confirmed, and the DSS had not issued an official response in the reports reviewed.

The Ekiti State Government also denied any involvement in the incident, distancing itself from the allegations raised by the AAC presidential candidate.

The government called for a thorough investigation by the police and maintained that those responsible should be identified and brought to justice.

It also reiterated its commitment to protecting the rights and safety of residents and visitors, regardless of their political affiliations.

The incident has attracted attention because of its implications for political activities and the safety of opposition figures ahead of the 2027 elections.

Sowore, who is known for his activism and criticism of government policies, has remained involved in political activities and public campaigns across the country.

His presence in Ekiti was reportedly connected with his campaign engagements and participation in activities planned in the state.

The alleged attack has therefore raised questions about the protection available to political candidates and their supporters while travelling or attending public events.

Political parties and civil society organisations have frequently emphasised the importance of ensuring that candidates can conduct their activities without intimidation, violence or threats.

The safety of political participants is particularly important during election periods, when campaign activities often involve travel, public gatherings and meetings with supporters.

The arrest of the 11 suspects has also brought attention to the responsibility of law enforcement agencies to investigate allegations of political violence impartially.

The police have said their investigation will focus on determining the individual roles of the suspects and identifying any additional persons who may have been involved.

The recovery of mobile phones, communication devices and other items could also provide investigators with information relevant to the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Authorities are expected to examine available evidence and statements from witnesses as part of the process.

The police have not yet announced the conclusion of their investigation or confirmed whether formal charges have been filed against the arrested individuals.

The suspects remain in custody as investigators work to establish the facts surrounding the incident.

The command has maintained that its responsibility is to protect lives and property and ensure that anyone found responsible for criminal activities faces the appropriate legal process.

The incident has also renewed calls for political leaders, security agencies and members of the public to promote peaceful engagement during the build-up to the next general election.

As the investigation continues, attention remains focused on the circumstances of the alleged attack, the roles of the arrested suspects and whether additional individuals will be identified.

The police have assured the public that further information will be communicated as the investigation progresses.

The arrest of the 11 suspects marks a significant step in the case, but the final determination of responsibility will depend on the findings of investigators and the legal process.