Lagos Marathon: Take It Back Movement Demands Apology Over Attack On Sowore
The Take It Back Movement has condemned what it described as a “disgraceful attack” on its leader, Omoyele Sowore, and movement members during Saturday’s Access Bank Lagos City Marathon.
According to a statement issued on Saturday by the Director-General of TIB Global, Sowore and his team participated in the 10Km race but were met with violence and harassment at the finish line in Eko Atlantic.
The statement alleged that thugs, reportedly “sponsored by the Lagos State Government” assaulted Sowore and his team, including members of the press.
“After crossing the finish line, Sowore and his comrades returned to the tents provided for participants, where they sat to address the media, including a Daily Trust reporter who had followed them throughout the race,” the statement read.
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The movement claimed that some individuals approached them, insisting that the space was designated for “government dignitaries” and that they should vacate the area.
Sowore reportedly questioned this assertion, challenging why non-participants were given priority over those who had completed the race.
A team member assured the coordinators that they would only be there temporarily while waiting for other team members, after which they left.
The TIB alleged that about 10 minutes later, a group of thugs launched an unprovoked attack on Sowore, his team, and members of the press.
“The media crew covering the event was not spared, as they were also harassed and assaulted,” the statement alleged.
According to TIB, the attackers targeted their equipment, forcibly seizing a camera belonging to a media crew member named Happiness.
“Her camera was forcefully taken in an attempt to delete footage of the attack,” the group stated, adding that as of the time of the statement, the camera had not been returned.
In response, the TIB demanded immediate action from the Lagos State Government and marathon organisers.
“We demand the immediate return of the stolen camera and footage, as well as a public apology from the marathon organisers for their complicity in this politically motivated aggression,” the statement read.
TIB highlighted that Sowore has participated in at least four editions of the Lagos City Marathon and described the attack as an “affront to the principles of sportsmanship.”
As of press time, neither the Lagos State government nor the organisers of the marathon had not responded to the allegations.
Sowore was attacked in Lagos by thugs alongside crew members of his media outfit while participating in the marathon.
The Access Bank Lagos City Marathon is one of Nigeria’s most prestigious road races, attracting elite athletes, casual runners, and government dignitaries.
