The Department of State Services (DSS) in Ogun State has detained Ladi Adebutu, the 2023 governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Reports indicate that Adebutu’s arrest is connected to allegations of electoral malpractices during last Saturday’s local government elections in Ogun State. He is accused of deploying 40 unauthorized policemen from Lagos’ MOPOL 49 to the state on election day.
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Additionally, Adebutu was alleged to have accompanied PDP-aligned thugs in Ikenne Local Government Area, reportedly using motorcycles to intimidate voters, attempt ballot box snatching, and brandish firearms and other weapons.
Kayode Adebayo, the Ogun PDP Publicity Secretary, confirmed Adebutu’s detention, stating that the charges against him remain unclear. Efforts to secure his release, either through personal recognition or a surety, were unsuccessful as of 10 p.m. Monday night.
Our party leader, Ladi Adebutu, has indeed been detained by the DSS on undisclosed charges,” Adebayo said. “Despite attempts to secure his bail, the situation remains unresolved. His legal team has been informed and will address the matter on Tuesday.
Adebayo urged PDP members and supporters to remain calm and maintain peace as the party works to resolve the issue.
“Our principal has called for calm, assuring party members and supporters that this challenging time is part of the sacrifices for democracy,” Adebayo added.
The development has heightened political tension in Ogun State, with many closely monitoring the situation.
