Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have released an Ogun State-based pastor, Kayode Olawoye, alongside two of his associates, following widespread public condemnation of their detention.
Pastor Olawoye was arrested on Monday, January 19, 2026, after being invited by the DSS, an action that quickly sparked outrage on social media and among human rights groups.
Pastor Known for Exposing Bad Roads
Olawoye had recently gone viral for repeatedly calling attention to the poor condition of roads in Ogun State, urging the state government to fulfil its campaign promises on infrastructure.
A family source confirmed his release on Tuesday night, speaking with PUNCH Metro.
How the DSS Detention Happened
According to Olawoye’s wife, Shola Olawoye, her husband received a phone call from the DSS on Sunday evening, inviting him for what was described as a “friendly interrogation” at the agency’s Ogun State office.
She said he arrived at the office around 1:30 p.m. on Monday, but was subsequently detained without access to family members. Two associates who accompanied him — Benjamin Olaleye and Joshua — were also reportedly held, with their phones seized.
“I have not been able to speak with him since he entered the office. I don’t know his condition or whether he has eaten,” she said.
Family Alleges Intimidation Over Road Advocacy
Shola Olawoye suggested that the detention was linked to her husband’s continued advocacy for improved road infrastructure across the state.
She described the arrest as unjust, stressing that her husband was neither violent nor abusive, but merely demanding accountability from elected officials.
“He is simply saying our governor should fulfil his campaign promises. I don’t understand when being civil became a crime,” she said.
Another family member revealed that this was the third time the DSS had invited Olawoye for questioning, alleging that officials repeatedly asked whether he was being sponsored to criticise the state government — a claim he consistently denied.
Amnesty International Condemns Arrest
The detention triggered strong reactions online, prompting Amnesty International Nigeria to issue a statement condemning the DSS action.
The rights group described Olawoye’s detention as unlawful and an abuse of fundamental human rights, adding that criticising government policies does not amount to a crime.
“Subjecting a peaceful advocate for good governance to intimidation is unlawful. The deplorable state of roads in Ogun State justifies his advocacy,” the group said.
Pastor, Associates Released After 24 Hours
In an update late Tuesday night, a family source confirmed that Pastor Olawoye and his two associates were released after spending over 24 hours in detention.
“They were freed on Tuesday night,” the source said.
Officials Silent
Efforts to get reactions from Ogun State officials proved unsuccessful. The DSS State Director, Peter Afunanya, did not respond to calls or messages, while the governor’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, asked for a callback but was unreachable at the time of filing this report.
The incident has reignited debate over free speech, civic advocacy, and the treatment of activists in Nigeria.
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