The Take It Back Movement in Bauchi State and the Workers and Youth Solidarity Network (WYSN) have condemned the reported attack on human rights activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, and members of his entourage in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State.
The two organisations, in separate statements, described the incident as a threat to democratic principles, political participation and freedom of expression, calling on the Federal Government and relevant security agencies to conduct an independent investigation and ensure that everyone involved is brought to justice.
They also urged authorities to establish whether any political figures or government officials were connected to the attack, including individuals who may have sponsored or facilitated the violence.
Bilyaminu Usman, Deputy State Coordinator of the Take It Back Movement in Bauchi State, said the assault on Sowore went beyond an attack on an individual, describing it as an attempt to discourage Nigerians from demanding accountability from those in authority.
Usman condemned the reported violence against the activist, stressing that political disagreements should be addressed through democratic engagement rather than intimidation.
He maintained that the right of citizens to question government actions and participate in political activities must be protected, irrespective of their political affiliations.
Similarly, the Workers and Youth Solidarity Network warned against the use of armed groups and political thugs to intimidate opposition figures, particularly as preparations and political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections gather momentum.
The organisation stressed that no governor, political party or public official should encourage or deploy violent groups to suppress dissent or prevent citizens from exercising their democratic rights.
It further cautioned against a political environment where weapons, cult groups and hired enforcers take the place of peaceful political discussions and democratic participation.
WYSN also called on Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, to publicly address the allegations surrounding the incident and urged security agencies to carry out an impartial investigation into the circumstances of the attack.
Both organisations insisted that accountability must extend beyond the immediate perpetrators to include anyone found to have financed, organised or supported the violence.
The Bauchi Take It Back Movement also urged Nigerians not to be discouraged or intimidated by acts of political violence, maintaining that such incidents would not stop its members from continuing their lawful activities and advocacy.
The groups’ condemnation comes amid the Ekiti State Police Command’s announcement that 11 suspects had been arrested in connection with the attack.
The police said investigations were ongoing to determine the individual roles of the suspects, establish their possible links to the incident and identify other persons who may have been involved.
The organisations reiterated that protecting political freedoms and ensuring the safety of citizens are essential responsibilities of government and security institutions, particularly as the country approaches another general election.