The Ilutitun Youth Development Forum (IYDF) has thrown its support behind human rights activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, following the reported attack on him and members of his entourage in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State.
The organisation also reaffirmed its invitation to Sowore to attend the 8th Uluuton Mini Marathon in 2026, insisting that he remains welcome to participate in the annual sporting event despite the controversy surrounding his exclusion from the Ikogosi Marathon.
In a statement released after the incident, the forum expressed concern over the attack and wished Sowore and other affected persons a quick and full recovery. It equally called for a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
âWe are deeply concerned by the reports of the incident and wish him and everyone affected a speedy and complete recovery. We stand in solidarity with him during this difficult moment and hope that the circumstances surrounding the incident will be thoroughly investigated,â the statement said.
IYDF described Sowore as a committed supporter of its annual Uluuton Mini Marathon, noting that he had regularly attended and taken part in the event over the years.
The group said his contributions, which included financial support and active participation, reflected his interest in promoting sports, youth empowerment and community development.
According to the forum, Soworeâs involvement has become a valued part of the marathon, and it appreciates his continued support.
Looking ahead to the 2026 edition, the organisation reiterated that the activist would be received warmly in Ilutitun and expressed hope that he would return to participate.
âAs we prepare for the 8th Uluuton Mini Marathon 2026, we want to reassure him that he remains warmly welcomed in Ilutitun. We look forward to seeing him healthy, strong and running alongside us once again,â the statement added.
The forum also extended its prayers and goodwill to Sowore and his team, wishing them recovery, renewed strength and safe journeys.
The show of support comes amid the controversy surrounding Soworeâs exclusion from the 2026 Ikogosi 17.5-kilometre Marathon in Ekiti State.
The Ikogosi Marathon Initiative had stated that although Sowore registered for the competition, he was not issued a race bib or granted clearance to participate. The organisers attributed the decision to what they called âdocumented conduct and security considerationsâ.
Following the decision, Sowore accused the organisers, led by Makinde Araoye, and Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji of being complicit in an alleged plot to assassinate him and members of his team.
He subsequently called on World Athletics to take disciplinary action against the organisers and blacklist them from involvement in sporting competitions. He also demanded an independent investigation into the alleged roles of the organisers and state authorities.