Pastor Kayode Olawoye, a cleric who recently became known for his outspoken campaign demanding better roads in Ogun State, has been detained by the Department of State Services (DSS) in Abeokuta.
According to Objectv Media, Olawoye was invited for questioning for the third time but was instead held in custody.
His arrest has triggered widespread outrage across social media, where citizens and activists describe the move as an attack on free speech and civic advocacy.
“Asking the government to deliver good governance is now a punishable offence in Nigeria,” wrote Mr Pat (@patibeawuchi2). “You dare not ask for good governance under this APC government. That’s how disgraceful the country has become.”
Another user, House of Freedom (@VictorEmma15993), appealed directly to authorities, saying: “Nothing must happen to Pastor Kayode Olawoye.” Chris Lowe (@ChrisLowe918946) urged collective action: “People of Ogun state and the west in general should all come out to ask for his release. An injustice on one is an injustice on all.”
The detention has reignited debate about accountability in governance, particularly regarding road infrastructure in Ogun State. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has repeatedly stated that federal funds are being released to states, yet citizens complain of deteriorating roads. “Instead of the government fixing the bad roads, now the government is trying to indoctrinate, intimidate and punish the messenger,” one commentator noted.
OmoOlogo (@Ghostpop89) was blunt: “Fix the road and stop oppressing us in Ogun state. We’re tired of you guys, you’re all political thieves!” Ade Adetolaju (@adeadetolaju) added: “It’s now the way of APC. Leave the problem and go after the message sender.”
Not all reactions were sympathetic. Some argued that Olawoye’s activism was misleading or unnecessarily confrontational.
“Criticise the government constructively, but claiming that the road being constructed at the instruction of the state government is being done by the Federal and thereby expressly calling the state government a liar without proof? Freedom of speech isn’t freedom of foolishness,” wrote I am a Survivor (@IamaSurvivor06).
Akeem Elegbeji (@Akeem_Keemsons) echoed this sentiment: “Good for him! You cannot be demarketing the state in that manner without consequences. How many newly constructed roads did he visit and showcase to Nigerians?”
Ogun State, like other states, receives monthly allocations from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC). In mid-2025, states collectively received between ₦577 billion and ₦711 billion monthly, with Ogun’s share varying depending on statutory allocations and VAT. Critics argue that despite these funds, infrastructure remains poor, fueling frustration among residents.
The chorus of voices demanding Olawoye’s release continues to grow, with many framing the incident as emblematic of Nigeria’s governance crisis. “DSS detained a citizen asking for good roads? DSS now moves like a terrorist organisation. Nigerians must demand his release,” said Akin (@supernova6). Dabrach (@DabKachi) summed up the mood: “So, it has now become a crime to demand a good road from the government. What a shame.”
