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Former Ogun State governorship candidate under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Ladi Adebutu, has dismissed allegations leveled against him by the Department of State Services (DSS) as “baseless,” asserting that his detention was an attempt to stifle opposition voices.
Adebutu spoke out following his release from DSS custody in Abeokuta early Tuesday morning, November 19.
“I was released by the DSS on Tuesday, 19th November 2024, after being invited over spurious accusations related to the November 16 Local Government election,” Adebutu disclosed.
The politician was arrested on Monday, a day after the election, which he described as neither free nor fair.
According to Adebutu, the allegations aimed to undermine his right to free speech and silence his criticism of irregularities in the local government polls.
He argued for financial autonomy for local governments, stating that credible elections are crucial for development.
“Mr. President, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, shares my view on local government autonomy, which highlights its national importance rather than a partisan stance,” he remarked.
Adebutu also hinted at deeper issues within Ogun State’s governance, asserting, “Desperation has set in to emasculate the third tier of government completely. This is the struggle for our development.”
Despite his ordeal, Adebutu commended the DSS for their professionalism during his detention. “I am pleasantly surprised at the fairness and diligence displayed by the DSS in handling this matter,” he noted.
He further acknowledged a recent Ogun State High Court ruling that favoured the PDP’s participation in the local government elections, describing it as a triumph for justice.
Expressing gratitude to supporters and detractors alike, Adebutu urged collective efforts towards achieving good governance. “Together, we must move the narration forward and arrive at good governance,” he concluded.
The DSS has yet to comment on the allegations or Adebutu’s statements.
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