The Ogun State chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has confirmed that Hon. Oladipupo Adebutu, its governorship candidate in the 2023 elections, has been detained by the Department of State Services (DSS).
Adebutu was reportedly taken into custody by DSS operatives on Monday and held at their facility.
Earlier in the day, Adebutu had spoken to the media, alleging that PDP members, leaders, and supporters were facing harassment and intimidation by the military and police during the recent elections.
His arrest is believed to be connected to disturbances in Iperu town during the local government elections held on Saturday, November 16.
As of 10 p.m. on Monday, efforts to secure Adebutu’s release had been unsuccessful. The PDP’s Publicity Secretary in Ogun, Arc. Kayode Adebayo, issued a statement late that night, assuring party members that further attempts to secure his release would be made on Tuesday.
“This is to inform members of our great party, the People’s Democratic Party, that our leader has indeed been detained by the DSS, though the exact charges remain unclear,” Adebayo said.
He added that Adebutu urged supporters to remain calm, as “this is one of the prices for our democracy.”
Adebayo also noted that attempts to release Adebutu on bail, either through personal recognition or a surety, had so far been unsuccessful.
However, his legal team is expected to pursue further steps on Tuesday morning.
Adebayo concluded by informing party members and the public of Adebutu’s situation, encouraging everyone to stay calm until the matter is resolved.
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