‘If Sowore Needs Personal Security, Government Has Failed’ — Panelists Condemn Political Intimidation

Political commentators have criticised the Federal Government over the reported attack on African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore in Ekiti State, arguing that the incident raises serious questions about the government's responsibility to protect citizens and opposition figures.

During a television discussion, one of the panelists said that if a Nigerian citizen, particularly an opposition politician, must rely on personal security to protect himself from political violence, it reflects a failure in the government's fundamental responsibility.

“If Sowore needs to give up his personal security, then this government has failed. The central function of the government is to provide security for the citizens,” the commentator said.

The panelists also expressed concern over what they described as an increasingly hostile political environment in which people who disagree with those in power are allegedly portrayed as enemies.

They argued that political disagreement is a fundamental part of democracy and that citizens must be free to support opposition parties, organise rallies and express political opinions without intimidation.

The discussion followed the reported attack on Sowore and members of his team at a restaurant in Ado-Ekiti on October 30, 2026.

Sowore alleged that armed individuals attacked his team, while the Ekiti State Police Command initially described the incident as an altercation between two groups. The police subsequently announced the arrest of 11 suspects and said investigations were ongoing. 

The Ekiti State Government has rejected allegations linking it to the incident, describing the accusations as unfounded and calling on the police to investigate thoroughly and prosecute anyone found responsible.

The government, through the Governor's Chief Press Secretary, Olayinka Oyebode, said it had no involvement in the incident and reiterated its commitment to protecting residents and visitors irrespective of their political affiliations. 

The panelists, however, maintained that the authorities must ensure that the investigation is transparent and that anyone found to have participated in the violence is held accountable.

They also referenced previous controversies involving restrictions on opposition rallies and political mobilisation, warning that public officials should not use their positions to limit the constitutional rights of political opponents.

The discussion further raised concerns about the relationship between political power, government contracts and patronage, with one commentator arguing that some displays of political loyalty may be driven by personal economic interests rather than ideological commitment.

The panel concluded that Nigeria's democratic process must protect political pluralism and guarantee the right of every eligible citizen to participate freely, regardless of party affiliation.