Ṣoworẹ's Ekiti Encounter: When Provocation Turns Into Confrontation

What exactly happened between Omoyele Sowore and some APC presidential candidate's supporters in Ado-Ekiti on Friday is a question that deserves a proper investigation, especially given the competing accounts that have emerged since the incident.

Sowore and his entourage reportedly arrived in Ekiti State and proceeded to MIDAS FM 90.5, where he granted a radio interview. During the programme, he reportedly made several disparaging remarks about the APC, its leadership and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

After the interview, Sowore and his team reportedly proceeded to Tawakalitu Restaurant to have a meal. According to an account of the incident circulating from the area, they encountered some individuals wearing PBAT/APC-customised shirts. 

What followed, according to this account, was a series of verbal attacks, with Sowore allegedly directing provocative remarks at the APC supporters and the President.

The situation reportedly escalated when other APC supporters arrived at the restaurant, leading to further exchanges and, eventually, a physical confrontation between members of the two sides.

However, the narrative that has since emerged from Sowore's camp has raised further questions. While his team initially described the incident as an attempted kidnapping, subsequent statements characterised it as an attack. 

These descriptions, alongside the conflicting accounts of what transpired at the restaurant, make an impartial investigation particularly important.

The Ekiti State Police Command has confirmed that an altercation occurred and that Sowore sustained injuries before receiving medical attention. The police have also indicated that an investigation was ordered into the incident.

Nobody should be above the law, regardless of political affiliation, public status or ideological persuasion. Equally, freedom of expression does not confer a licence on anyone to provoke, insult or physically confront others without being held accountable under the law.

If the eyewitness account of what transpired at Tawakalitu Restaurant is accurate, then the incident cannot responsibly be reduced to a one-sided narrative without examining the conduct of everyone involved.

The appropriate course is to establish the facts, identify those who instigated the confrontation and ensure that anyone found culpable answers for their actions.

Ekiti State deserves peace, not political theatrics. Every visitor, irrespective of political persuasion, must respect the peace and hospitality of the state and must not turn Ekiti into a theatre of violence.

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JOJ Emerges Patron of Arise for Good Governance Tinubu Support Group in Ogun

JOJ Emerges Patron of Arise for Good Governance Tinubu Support Group in Ogun

ABEOKUTA, Ogun State 

A prominent Ogun State political figure and philanthropist, Joseph Oluwasegun James, popularly known as JOJ, has been decorated as the Patron of the Ogun State Chapter of Arise for Good Governance Tinubu Support Group.

JOJ received the honour on Friday, August 14, 2026, when the state executive of the group paid a courtesy visit to his residence in Abeokuta as part of efforts to strengthen grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

The delegation, led by the State Coordinator, Dr. Peter Olusade Adebimpe, said JOJ was chosen in recognition of his political influence, grassroots reach, humility and commitment to people-oriented leadership.

Speaking on the decision, the State Youth Leader, Comrade Adebayo Oyekunle, described JOJ as a bridge-builder and a respected grassroots figure whose support would strengthen the group’s mobilisation efforts across the state.

Responding, JOJ expressed appreciation for the recognition and pledged his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid.

He said the strategic plans and roadmap presented by the Ogun State executive, particularly its youth wing, convinced him of the group’s seriousness and commitment.

“I have listened to your plans, and I see seriousness. The re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027 is a task that must be done. You have my support, my doors are open, and I will stand with this movement,” JOJ said.

The engagement was attended by eight members of the Ogun State executive, including the Assistant State Coordinator, Comrade Ganniu Kehinde; State Secretary, Comrade Lukmon Okedayo; Organising Secretary, Comrade Abiodun Olaleye; Youth Leader, Comrade Adebayo Oyekunle; Women Leader, Comrade Abosede Olaleye; Director of Contact and Mobilisation, Hon. Gbolahan Salami; and Publicity Secretary, Comrade Kunle Sodipo.

The State Women Leader, Comrade Abosede Olaleye, also commended JOJ for his humility and hospitality, describing the engagement as a meeting of people united by a shared commitment to good governance.

The group said the emergence of JOJ as its Ogun State Patron would further strengthen its grassroots mobilisation structure and support its activities across the state’s 20 local government areas ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

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Osun Election and The BAO Model

13th August, 2026

By Bola Agboola 

For the first time in twelve years, Osun is poised for a gubernatorial election, and I will not be present to witness the process in person – neither as a reporter, a party sympathizer, nor an observer.

The rationale is clear: a pervasive fear of the unknown.

The disturbing reports of violence, fatalities, and maiming that have emerged from Osun over the past few months would indeed compel any Nigerian to reconsider visiting the state for the election.

As of Tuesday, merely three days before the election, The Guardian reported that over 29 lives had already been tragically lost to election-related violence in Osun State. This starkly illustrates the tragic lengths to which the thirst for power can drive individuals, even those who are supposed to be brothers or kinsmen.

The unseen actors orchestrating these events, if questioned, would undoubtedly profess their actions stem from an ardent passion for Osun, convinced they possess the capacity to make Osun State a better place.

I meditate that the unsettling events in Osun would truly make the people of Ekiti appreciate the formula employed by their Governor, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, to secure a second term so seamlessly. 

The very gubernatorial position that has claimed 29 lives in Osun was contended in Ekiti without a single casualty. Ought this 'BAO Model' not to be meticulously studied and widely emulated?

Does this not unequivocally point to the urgent need to re-evaluate and redirect the political system we operate in Nigeria?

Can we not diverge from the 'winner-takes-all' brand of politics that currently dominates our landscape? 

Had BAO not demonstrated such profound humility, had he not meticulously engaged and fostered a sense of belonging among the majority of Ekiti's power-brokers, it is conceivable that Ekiti might have witnessed a similar, if not greater, number of fatalities during its June election.

This, I contend, is the essence of the BAO Model: a politics characterized by inclusion, by genuinely engaging stakeholders, by profound humility, and by a commitment to contributive development. 

If our collective aspiration is indeed the holistic development of our local governments, states, and the nation as a whole, then there is no conceivable reason why this model should not be nationally if not universally embraced.

The BAO Model of politics is precisely what I would advocate for every governor during their inaugural term. Just that pride, regrettably will preclude many from adhering to this principle.

The BAO Model stands as a compelling reminder that a superior approach to political engagement exists—one that cultivates unity and progress, rather than sowing division and violence. It is a paradigm worthy of meticulous study and widespread emulation for the collective welfare of all citizens. 

I wish we earnestly strive towards establishing a more equitable and inclusive political system throughout Nigeria.

I extend my sincerest wishes for the best to the people of Osun this Saturday.

May peace and order indeed prevail throughout the election, enabling the people of Osun to exercise their democratic rights free from fear or intimidation.

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Ekiti 2026: PDP Has No Legal Ground to Sponsor Candidates - Sagay

...Says Anyone Contesting Under PDP Is Merely Writing an Examination Without a Certificate

As campaigns intensify ahead of the June 20 governorship election in Ekiti State, former Chairman of the Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption (PACAC), Professor Itse Sagay (SAN), has raised fresh concerns over the legal standing of candidates contesting on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Sagay, in a telephone interview with New Telegraph, argued that recent court decisions concerning the PDP's leadership crisis have placed the party's ability to sponsor candidates in serious doubt.

The senior advocate's comments followed the Supreme Court's judgment which reportedly upheld the nullification of the PDP's November 2025 National Convention held in Ibadan, Oyo State, as well as the dismissal of a cross-appeal filed by some executives of a faction within the party.

According to the legal scholar, the implication of the apex court's decision is that neither of the rival factions laying claim to the PDP's leadership currently enjoys judicial recognition.

Asked whether the PDP could validly participate in future elections under the prevailing circumstances, Sagay reportedly responded in the negative.

"If the Supreme Court has expressly endorsed the non-legitimacy of both branches, it means, for now, neither of them is legitimate," he said.

He argued that the absence of a recognised leadership structure creates uncertainty regarding the party's authority to conduct its affairs, including the sponsorship of candidates for elective offices.

"You can't de-legitimise both branches; you must recognise one; otherwise you are killing the party," Sagay stated.

The former PACAC chairman further warned that candidates emerging from any faction of the party could face legal challenges from opponents on the grounds that the platform that sponsored them lacked legitimacy.

According to him, "if recognition has not been given to any of them by the Supreme Court, neither of them can present a candidate."

Sagay maintained that until the leadership dispute is conclusively resolved and a legitimate structure recognised, aspirants contesting under the PDP platform could be embarking on what he described as "an examination without a certificate."

The development has added another dimension to political discussions surrounding the Ekiti governorship election, where the PDP candidate, Dr. Wole Oluyede, is seeking to challenge the incumbent administration led by Governor Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

While the PDP has concluded its campaigns, Sagay's remarks have intensified scrutiny of the party's internal crisis and its implications for candidates contesting under its platform.

Adding to the party’s political troubles, the much-publicised grand finale campaign rally was notably marked by the absence of several prominent national and state leaders, a development that has further fueled concerns over unity, coordination, and internal cohesion ahead of the election

With Professor Sagay questioning the legal foundation upon which PDP candidates are contesting and visible cracks continuing to emerge within the party's ranks, Dr. Wole Oluyede faces the difficult task of convincing voters that his ambition is backed by a stable and cohesive political platform.

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SEN. BIODUN OLUJIMI CONGRATULATES GOV. BAO ON SUCCESSFUL CAMPAIGN FLAG-OFF, APPRECIATES EKITI PEOPLE FOR MASSIVE TURNOUT

A former deputy Governor of Ekiti State, and minority leader of the 8th Senate representing Ekiti South Senatorial District, distinguished *Senator(Mrs)Biodun Olujimi,* has congratulated the Governor of Ekiti State, *Mr Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO)*, on the successful flag-off of his re-election campaign.

In a statement released through her Media Team, *Senator Olujimi* described the campaign flag-off as a remarkable and well-organized event that reflects the growing support for Governor Oyebanji’s administration.

She expressed profound appreciation to the people of Ekiti State for their unprecedented turnout, noting that the massive crowd witnessed at the event is a clear demonstration of the confidence and trust reposed in the governor’s leadership.

*Senator Olujimi* further commended stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress for their unity and commitment, which she said contributed significantly to the success of the flag-off ceremony.

According to her, the enthusiasm and solidarity displayed by the people signal a positive outlook for the forthcoming election, urging residents to sustain the momentum and remain peaceful and law-abiding throughout the electoral process.

She reaffirmed her support for Governor Oyebanji and called on the electorate to continue backing policies and programs that promote development, stability, and prosperity across Ekiti state. 

Signed:

SBO Media Team

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Tinubu Not Invited to BAO Flag-Off, Group Faults Viral Claim

....“Only lack of education makes anyone think they can influence a sitting President from Facebook… Ekiti APC never invited Baba for the flag-off” ~ Mary Oso Omotosho

A political advocacy group, BAO Grassroots Network (BGN), has dismissed as false and misleading a viral claim suggesting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was invited to attend the campaign flag-off of Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, scheduled for Monday, April 27, 2026.

In a statement released on Saturday, the group said at no time was the President invited or scheduled to be present at the event, contrary to claims made in a circulating video by social commentator Isaac Fayose.

The group described the video as a “deliberate misrepresentation of facts,” alleging that the claim was designed to create a false narrative that the President would snub the event.

“There was no invitation extended to President Tinubu for the flag-off. Any suggestion to the contrary is entirely fabricated,” the statement read. “The intention appears to be to manufacture a situation where an imaginary guest ‘fails’ to show up, only to become a subject of ridicule. Nigerians can see through such tactics.”

BGN further alleged that the claim fits into a pattern of repeated misinformation targeted at the Oyebanji administration, noting that similar attempts in the past had failed to gain traction.

While clarifying the situation around the flag-off, the group reaffirmed that President Tinubu remains a key figure within the progressive political family and is expected to participate in the campaign’s grand finale at a later date, which will be officially announced.

The development comes as political activities intensify ahead of the June 20 governorship election in Ekiti State, with stakeholders raising concerns over the spread of unverified information and politically charged narratives.

The group urged members of the public to disregard what it described as calculated falsehoods and instead focus on issues of governance and the future direction of the state.

Weighing in on the controversy, the Director General, Bureau of Community Communications, Mary Oso Omotosho, did not mince words, opening her reaction with a pointed jab at those behind the claim.

“Dear parents, no matter the situation, make sure you give your child education. Only a lack of education would make a grown up think he has an influence on a sitting President because he barks on Facebook daily,” she said, dismissing the narrative outright.

She maintained that the Ekiti APC never invited President Tinubu to the flag-off, insisting that his presence is reserved for the grand finale.

“Our Baba will storm Ekiti for the grand finale in a way that will shake the political space,” she added, taking a swipe at opposition figures, including Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi.

Omotosho expressed confidence in the outcome of the June 20 governorship election, projecting a decisive victory for Governor Oyebanji.

“It’s a total packing of votes for BAO in Ekiti. Hard work and prayer remain the magic,” she said.

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Baseless claim, APC Group Fires Unknown Guber candidate

...says security measure strengthens under Oyebanji, as the state is ranked most peaceful in Nigeria

April 2nd, 2026 

The APC Integrity Caucus has pushed back strongly against claims by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, Wole Oluyede, describing his recent alarm on insecurity in Ekiti State as exaggerated, misleading and politically motivated.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the group said Oluyede’s claims do not reflect the reality on ground, insisting that Ekiti remains one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria under Governor Biodun Oyebanji.

The Caucus went further to question the motive behind what it described as persistent alarmist narratives from the PDP candidate.

It said Oluyede appears “increasingly disconnected from reality,” attributing his outbursts to what it called the lingering neglect and lack of recognition he continues to suffer from both the national and state leadership of his party.

According to the group, “it is evident that in a bid to stay politically relevant, he has resorted to amplifying fear and peddling baseless claims that do not align with the situation on ground.”

While dismissing the opposition’s position, the Caucus also described the earlier statement as “a puerile, watery and disjointed outburst,” adding that it reflects “the confusion of a political orphan still struggling for recognition within the very party he claims to represent.”

But beyond the rhetoric, the group leaned heavily on data to counter the narrative of insecurity.

According to available security reports, Ekiti ranked among the safest states in Nigeria, recording one of the lowest numbers of media-reported killings within a recent review period. The Caucus noted that while several states grappled with high casualty figures, Ekiti recorded minimal incidents.

It further cited police data showing a steady decline in major crimes across the state. Kidnapping cases reportedly dropped from 17 to 7, armed robbery from 18 to 7, while murder cases reduced from 53 to 37 within the same period.

“These are far from being political claims; they are operational records of the Nigerian Police,” the statement stressed.

Addressing the recent incident around student hostels in Ado-Ekiti, the Caucus revealed that some of the perpetrators have already been apprehended, with security agencies intensifying efforts to track down other members of the criminal gang.

The group added that the Oyebanji administration has since strengthened security measures around campuses and vulnerable areas, including increased patrols and coordinated operations to prevent any recurrence.

While acknowledging that such incidents are unfortunate, the Caucus maintained that they do not amount to a breakdown of security.

“No society in the whole world is completely immune to crime,” the statement noted.

With the June 20 governorship election drawing closer, the APC Integrity Caucus accused opposition figures of attempting to weaponise fear for political gain.

“Ekiti is not under siege. Ekiti is stable, secure, and working,” the statement concluded.

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