Amnesty International has condemned what it described as the “incessant intimidation and harassment” of Pastor Kayode Olawoye, a cleric and civic advocate known for campaigning for improved road infrastructure in Ogun State.

In a statement issued on Tuesday via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the global human rights organisation criticised Nigerian authorities, stating that the actions allegedly taken by the Department of State Services (DSS) against Pastor Olawoye are unlawful and unacceptable.

“The Nigerian authorities must end the incessant intimidation and harassment of Pastor Kayode Olawoye, a cleric widely known for advocating for better road infrastructure in Ogun State,” Amnesty International said.

The organisation stressed that the government has a constitutional obligation to protect fundamental human rights, including the right to peaceful advocacy and freedom of expression. It urged authorities to prioritise addressing legitimate public concerns rather than targeting activists.

“Subjecting a peaceful advocate for good governance to bizarre intimidation by the Department of State Services (DSS) is unlawful,” the statement added.

Amnesty International further noted that Pastor Olawoye’s advocacy is justified, citing what it described as the poor and deplorable state of road infrastructure across Ogun State. The group emphasised that criticism of Governor Dapo Abiodun or any public officeholder does not constitute a crime.

“The advocacy of Pastor Kayode is justified, given the shocking and deplorable state of roads in Ogun State. Criticising the governor is not a criminal offence,” Amnesty stated.

The organisation called on Nigerian authorities to immediately end all forms of harassment against Pastor Olawoye and to respect the rights of citizens who demand accountability and good governance.

Earlier reports indicated that Pastor Olawoye was detained by the DSS following his recent public campaign calling for improved road infrastructure across the state. He was reportedly invited to the DSS office in Abeokuta on Monday for what was described as a “chat,” marking the third invitation extended to him by the agency.

Unlike previous engagements, however, the cleric was allegedly not allowed to leave the DSS facility and has since remained in detention.

The development has sparked concern among residents and civil society groups, who view the action as part of a growing pattern of intimidation against individuals who speak out on governance and infrastructure challenges under the current administration.

Pastor Olawoye has gained attention in recent weeks for using sermons, community engagements, and media platforms to highlight the deteriorating condition of major roads in Ogun State and the hardship faced daily by commuters, traders, and residents.

Residents and rights advocates have accused the state government of growing intolerance toward dissent, alleging that citizens who openly raise concerns about governance failures—particularly at the grassroots level—are increasingly subjected to harassment, threats, or arrests.