The Take It Back Movement has rejected the Ekiti State Police Command's account of the attack on its leader and presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, Omoyele Sowore, in Ado-Ekiti. In a statement issued on Friday, 30th October 2026, the movement demanded the immediate removal of the Commissioner of Police, CP Falade Adegoroye Michael, and the identification and prosecution of all those involved in the attack.
The group expressed outrage over the violence inflicted on Sowore, Pastor Samuel Ajeigbe, and other members in Ado-Ekiti, as well as the police's attempt to minimise the incident. According to TIB, Sowore and his entourage were attacked, contrary to the police's claim of an altercation. The movement insisted that images and accounts from the scene showed disturbing injuries, which were not minor as described by the police.
The Take It Back Movement faulted the police for downplaying the incident, saying the narrative insulted the intelligence of Nigerians and compounded the trauma of victims. The group emphasised that a press release cannot erase injuries, and official titles cannot whitewash violence. TIB also questioned the police's authority to intimidate victims into silence.
The movement was particularly concerned that Sowore had alleged that CP Falade Adegoroye Michael personally visited the scene and witnessed the aftermath, including the injuries, yet the command later issued a statement downplaying the attack. This has raised concerns about the police's complicity and misconduct.
Take It Back Movement demanded an independent and thorough investigation into allegations concerning complicity and misconduct involving security personnel, insisting that nobody, including the CP, should be above scrutiny. The group also condemned the Ekiti State Government under Governor Biodun Oyebanji for failing to guarantee an environment where political actors can exercise their constitutional freedoms.
The movement warned the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, that political power does not confer ownership of public spaces. TIB declared that it will not retreat or be intimidated into silence, adding that justice must be done. The group urged the government to identify the perpetrators, arrest them, and prosecute them.
The Take It Back Movement's statement, titled "You cannot beat, bleed and then gaslight the victims," emphasised its commitment to seeking justice for its leader and members. The group said it will continue to demand accountability from the government and security agencies.
Key points
- Take It Back Movement demands CP Falade Adegoroye Michael's removal over alleged complicity in attack on Omoyele Sowore
- The movement insists on an independent investigation into the attack and allegations of police misconduct
- TIB warns APC that political power does not confer ownership of public spaces
