On Friday, armed men attacked and attempted to abduct Omoyele Sowore, the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), in Ekiti State, Nigeria. According to eyewitnesses, the attackers were described as known thugs of the All Progressive Congress (APC). The incident occurred at a restaurant in Ekiti State, where Sowore and his team had stopped to eat.

The AAC has raised an alarm over the attack, stating that Sowore's safety is currently unknown, raising serious concerns about his well-being. In a statement issued by Rex Elanu, National Publicity Secretary of AAC, the party called on the Ekiti State governor, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Ekiti State Commissioner of Police to immediately establish Sowore's whereabouts, guarantee his safety, and arrest the perpetrators.

Sowore, a fierce critic of President Bola Tinubu, is a leading voice of opposition against the political establishment. The AAC warned that it will not accept any attempt to intimidate, harass, or physically attack him for daring to challenge the system. The party emphasized that Sowore's safety is non-negotiable and that it will hold the relevant authorities responsible if anything happens to him.

According to reports, Sowore was injured during the attack but was rescued by policemen who took him to a police hospital for treatment. Sources close to the AAC presidential candidate confirmed that he is currently safe but under police protection. However, it is unclear whether Sowore has officially been granted security protection, which he deserves as a presidential candidate in the 2027 election.

The AAC has demanded immediate action from the authorities, warning that if they fail to act with urgency, the party will mobilize a massive action at the Ekiti State Government House to demand answers, accountability, and justice. The party emphasized that political thuggery must not become a weapon for silencing opposition in Nigeria.

The incident has sparked widespread concern, with many Nigerians calling for the authorities to take swift action to ensure Sowore's safety and bring the perpetrators to justice. The attack on Sowore has raised questions about the security situation in Ekiti State and the ability of the authorities to protect political candidates.

The AAC has vowed to continue to challenge the political establishment, despite the attack on its presidential candidate. The party remains committed to its goal of promoting democratic change in Nigeria and has called on its supporters to remain calm and vigilant.

Key points

  • The AAC has demanded immediate action from the authorities to ensure Sowore's safety and bring the perpetrators to justice.
  • Sowore, a fierce critic of President Bola Tinubu, is a leading voice of opposition against the political establishment.
  • The incident has sparked widespread concern, with many Nigerians calling for the authorities to take swift action to ensure Sowore's safety and bring the perpetrators to justice.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.