DSS agents in Abeokuta detain Pastor Kayode Olawoye after his third invitation, sparking outrage over free speech.
The pastor, who leads Zion Church in Ijoko, actively campaigned for urgent repairs to Ogun State’s dilapidated roads.
Residents endure daily hardships from pothole-riddled highways that cause accidents, inflate transport costs, and hinder access to markets, schools, and hospitals.
Objectv Media first reported the development, confirming that DSS summoned Olawoye for the third time under the guise of a “chat.”
Unlike prior visits, agents held him in custody without formal charges or immediate explanation.
Amnesty International Nigeria swiftly condemned the action.
The rights group described the detention as “unlawful” and part of “incessant intimidation and harassment” against a peaceful advocate.
“The advocacy of Pastor Kayode is justified given the shocking and deplorable state of roads in Ogun — his state,” Amnesty stated in a post on X.
“Criticizing Gov. Dapo Abiodun is not a crime.”
Furthermore, Amnesty urged authorities to protect fundamental rights instead of punishing citizens who highlight public concerns.
The group emphasized that government should address infrastructure failures rather than silence critics.
Social media erupted with support for the pastor.
Many Nigerians expressed frustration that state officials prioritize suppressing dissent over fixing failing roads.
One viral post captured the sentiment: “For Dapo Abiodun, illegally abducting a citizen is apparently easier than fixing roads.”
Olawoye previously raised alarms about suspected DSS surveillance around his church after he criticized the governor’s administration.
He insisted on formal written invitations and refused informal pressure tactics.
As of late Tuesday, no official statement emerged from the DSS or Ogun State Government regarding the pastor’s detention.
Civil society groups continue to demand his immediate and unconditional release.
This incident highlights growing concerns about civic space in Nigeria, where advocates face reprisals for demanding basic services and accountability from elected leaders.
