The Ekiti State Police Command has arrested seven suspected armed political thugs allegedly brought into the state to disrupt the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election.

The State Commissioner of Police, Falade Adegoroye Michael, disclosed the development during a press briefing on Friday.

Suspects Arrested in Hotel Raid

According to the police, the suspects were arrested at about 9pm on Thursday at Onikoyi Hotel in Ikun-Ekiti following credible intelligence on their arrival in the state.

The command described the arrested individuals as “armed hoodlums” found in possession of dangerous weapons.

Those arrested include Adekunle Stephen, Boluwaji Ishola, Adepoju Adebayo, Oluwatobi Adeoluwa, Akintunde Emmanuel, Ibitola Babatope, and Adewale Makanjuola.

Weapons and Items Recovered

The police said some members of the group escaped using three vehicles, while several items were recovered from the suspects during the operation.

Recovered items include one Beretta pistol, two pump-action guns, nine rounds of 9mm live ammunition, four live cartridges, suspected charms, two Apple laptops, and a Honda Accord vehicle.

Alleged Plot to Disrupt APC Primary

Preliminary investigations, according to the police, suggest that the suspects were allegedly hired by a serving member of the House of Representatives.

The suspects were also said to have confessed that they were brought into Ekiti to disrupt the APC governorship primary initially scheduled for Friday, May 15, 2026.

Police Launch Manhunt for Sponsors

Commissioner Falade said the arrested suspects would be charged to court after investigations are concluded.

He added that efforts were ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the group, as well as their alleged sponsor.

“We are working to arrest other fleeing gang members and their sponsor,” he stated.

Election Timeline and Security Assurance

Recall that the APC primary election was initially fixed for Friday, May 15, 2026, but was later shifted to Saturday, May 16, 2026.

The police assured residents that adequate security measures have been put in place to prevent violence and ensure a peaceful electoral process before, during, and after the exercise.f