The Ekiti State Government has dismissed allegations by the African Action Congress (AAC) candidate, Omoyele Sowore, linking the State Government to his reported attack at a food outlet in Ado-Ekiti on Friday.
The Government would ordinarily have ignored the allegation, particularly in view of what it considers to be Sowore’s history of making unfounded claims, peddling fake news, and launching media attacks against the State Government over the past four years. However, as a responsible government, it considers it necessary to set the records straight and prevent members of the public from being misled.
While the organisers of the Ikogosi Marathon and the Ekiti State Police Command have issued official statements on the incident, the circumstances surrounding Sowore’s visit and the reported altercation raise questions about the motive behind his actions. The Government, however, leaves the determination of the facts of the matter to the appropriate authorities.
It is particularly absurd, however, to suggest that a state widely recognised for the remarkably peaceful conduct of its recent governorship campaign and election would resort to harassing or hounding an inconsequential presidential candidate.
The Ekiti State Government therefore dissociates itself totally from the incident and calls on the Police authorities to conduct a thorough investigation, identify those responsible and ensure that they are brought to justice.
The Government also wishes to reiterate its commitment to sustaining Ekiti State’s reputation as one of the most peaceful states in the country, founded on respect for the rule of law, democratic principles and tolerance of diverse social and political views.
The Government remains committed to protecting the rights and safety of all residents and visitors to the State, irrespective of their political affiliations or opinions.
Signed
Olayinka Oyebode
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
