DSS Arrests PDP’s Ex-Gubernatorial Candidate Ladi Adebutu Over Alleged Election Violations
The Department of State Services (DSS) in Ogun State has arrested Ladi Adebutu, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in the 2023 election. According to sources, his arrest is in connection with alleged misconduct during last Saturday’s local government elections in the state.
Adebutu is accused of deploying 40 “illegal policemen” from MOPOL 49 in Lagos to Ogun State on election day. He is also said to have been involved in a bid to disrupt the Ikenne Local Government election by allegedly using PDP thugs, riding on motorcycles and armed with guns and other weapons, in an attempt to snatch ballot boxes.
The arrest has sparked reactions from party officials, with the PDP’s publicity secretary, Kayode Adebayo, confirming that Adebutu was detained by the DSS. Adebayo added that as of 10 pm on Monday, efforts to secure Adebutu’s release had been unsuccessful, with attempts at bail through personal recognition or surety not yielding results.
“The leader of the Peoples Democratic Party has truly been detained by the DSS for charges yet unknown,” Adebayo stated. He further revealed that Adebutu’s lawyers had been informed and would take appropriate legal steps the following morning.
In a call for calm, Adebayo assured the public and party supporters that Adebutu had directed that they remain peaceful as the situation is resolved. He also noted that this was “one of the prices for our democracy” and urged party members to stay composed.
The arrest comes amid rising tensions over allegations of election violence in the state, with the DSS investigation ongoing.