Daud Olatunji
Former Governorship candidate of the People’s Democratic Party in Ogun State Oladipupo Adebutu has condemned the recent detention of his personal assistant, Gafar Asaolu, labeling it an abuse of political office.
In a statement released on Thursday, Adebutu criticized the Ogun State Police Command for allegedly succumbing to political manipulation, accusing them of fabricating charges against Asaolu following the November 16 local government elections.
“The detention of Gafar Asaolu was an unprecedented abuse of political office,” Adebutu said.
“Despite obtaining Certified True Copies of statements from all actors involved, it is clear that Asaolu was not mentioned as an assailant. Yet, the police allowed themselves to be used to usurp the rights of an innocent citizen.”
Adebutu commended the judiciary for recognizing the political nature of the case and ordering Asaolu’s release, noting that the court’s wisdom prevented further infringement on his aide’s rights.
However, he expressed concerns over what he described as a broader issue of financial mismanagement within Ogun State’s local governments.
He alleged that the state government received ₦214 billion in funds over a 52-month period but failed to account for its expenditure.
Adebutu accused the ruling party of using “Machiavellian tactics” to maintain control over local government resources, calling it a “wanton rape of the third tier of government’s finances.”
“This is a desperate attempt to conceal mismanagement and avoid accountability,” he added.
“But as members of the opposition, we will not be silenced. We will continue to demand transparent, just, and good governance for the benefit of our democracy and people.”
Adebutu expressed gratitude to Ogun State residents and Nigerians who showed solidarity during the ordeal, pledging to persist in his advocacy for a better Nigeria.
He said “Tyranny shall not prevail,” he concluded. “We remain hopeful for a brighter and greater country.”
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