Ekiti Police Deny Recognizing Any ADC Faction Amid Leadership Dispute
Ado-Ekiti, September 2, 2026—The Ekiti State Police Command has firmly rejected claims circulating on social media that its Commissioner of Police recognized one faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as the authentic leadership in the state.
In a statement signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Sunday Abutu, the police described the publication as “fabricated and misleading.”
It specifically denied that Commissioner of Police Falade Adegoroye Michael had legally recognized Hon. Ilesanmi Omolayo as the authentic ADC Chairman in Ekiti.
What Triggered the Clarification
According to the police, two rival ADC factions—one led by Hon. Ilesanmi Omolayo and the other by Dr. Bamidele Ekunola—separately petitioned the Commissioner’s office on 25 and 26 August 2026.
The petitions centered on the legitimacy of the party’s leadership and alleged illegal occupation of the party secretariat.
In the interest of peace and fairness, both groups were invited through the State Intelligence Department for a meeting held on Monday, 31 August 2026.
During the session, the Commissioner listened to both sides, advised them to maintain public order, refrain from actions that could disrupt peace, and seek legal redress through the courts where necessary.
Both factions expressed satisfaction with the outcome and signed written undertakings committing to keep the peace while exploring further consultations with their state and national leadership.
Police Reaffirm Strict Neutrality
“The Ekiti State Police Command therefore reiterates that it remains strictly apolitical, impartial, professional and neutral in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities,” the statement said. “At no time did the Commissioner of Police recognise, endorse, affirm or declare any faction of the African Democratic Congress or any other political party as the authentic or legitimate faction.”
The Command stressed that it treats all individuals and groups equally without fear or favour and remains committed to maintaining peace, public order and the rule of law across the state.
It urged the public, particularly political actors, to stop spreading unverified information that could cause confusion or tension.
Broader Context of ADC Tensions in Ekiti
The clarification comes against the backdrop of ongoing internal disagreements within the ADC in Ekiti following the June 2026 governorship election, in which the party’s candidate finished third. Leadership contests and claims of legitimacy have periodically surfaced, reflecting wider national challenges within the party.
By intervening only to de-escalate potential public disorder and directing the factions toward the courts and their party structures, the police have underscored their constitutional role as neutral guardians of order rather than arbiters of political disputes.
Residents and political stakeholders have been advised to disregard the circulating claims and rely on official channels for accurate information.
The Command continues to monitor the situation to prevent any escalation that could threaten peace in the state.
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