Sowore demands sanctions as Ikogosi Marathon bars him from 2026 edition

The Ikogosi Marathon has excluded activist and APC presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, from the 2026 edition, leading him to demand international sanctions against the organisers and Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji. The organisers cited security concerns arising from incidents involving Sowore and his associates in Ekiti State, despite him registering for the competition.

The decision was based on independently verified evidence, with the Marathon Initiative stating that Sowore's participation raises serious security concerns. Sowore accused the organisers and Ekiti State Governor of political motives and called for sanctions, an independent investigation, and legal action. The Marathon Initiative denied the allegations, stating that their policy prohibits political campaigns and partisan demonstrations and that they remain committed to providing a safe and neutral sporting environment.