A former aspirant for the Lagos State House of Representatives and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Prince Amb. (Dr.) Adedipe Dauda Ewenla, has announced that the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi has struck out a case instituted against him, citing lack of merit and absence of credible evidence.

Describing the judgment as a clear vindication, Ewenla attributed the outcome to divine intervention, maintaining that the allegations brought against him were false, malicious, and politically motivated.

Allegation of Unlawful Detention

In a statement made available to the public, Ewenla recounted his alleged unlawful detention for 37 days in 2019 during his political aspiration. He claimed the incident occurred under the tenure of the then Commissioner of Police and was orchestrated by political opponents seeking to frustrate his ambition.

He emphasized that participation in politics is a constitutional right of every Nigerian and expressed concern that his experience reflected a troubling reality for opposition members in Lagos State.

Declared Wanted Without Due Process

Ewenla further alleged that he was declared wanted without prior invitation or formal communication from security agencies. He maintained that he did not evade arrest but voluntarily presented himself at the OC SARS, Ikeja Police Command upon learning of the allegations.

According to him, due process was not followed, as he was detained for 37 days, while his wife was held for nine days, alongside several members of his campaign team who were also detained for varying periods.

Alleged Political Influence

He also alleged that during his detention, an Investigating Police Officer questioned his involvement in opposition politics, suggesting that his release was subject to directives “from above.” Ewenla described this as evidence of political interference in the matter.

He stated that his eventual arraignment and release on bail came only after sustained legal intervention and the invocation of his fundamental human rights.

Pipeline Vandalization Allegation

Addressing claims linking him to a pipeline vandalization incident in Abule-Egba in December 2018, Ewenla denied any involvement. He noted that statements from actual suspects reportedly absolved him, yet he was still declared wanted and publicly associated with the crime.

He added that he was never paraded alongside the suspects, which, according to him, further indicates an attempt to tarnish his reputation.

Claims of Political Intimidation

Ewenla alleged continued political intimidation following his refusal to defect to the ruling party. He claimed that after emerging victorious in a House of Representatives primary election in 2022, a previously dismissed case was revived amid internal party disputes.

He noted that the matter was eventually dismissed again, leading to his discharge and acquittal.

Call for Professionalism by Security Agencies

Ewenla called on security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigerian Army, to remain neutral, professional, and free from political influence, particularly as the 2027 general elections approach.

He also urged media organizations and journalists to prioritize verification and accuracy in their reporting to prevent the spread of misinformation.

Commitment to Political Participation

Despite the challenges, Ewenla reaffirmed his commitment to active political participation, stating that he remains undeterred and will continue to contribute to democratic processes.

When asked about his plans for the 2027 general elections, he stated that his decision would be guided by the direction of the party leadership and relevant legal outcomes affecting the PDP.

Appreciation

He expressed gratitude to his legal team, associates, and supporters, including Barrister Ejide Lawal, Omolola Oyetoro, Adedipe Modupe Oyinlola, Omolola Salami, the late Babatunde Kode, Adedipe Nuren, Adekunle, and Shodiya Abraham Adebayo, among others, for their steadfast support.

Background

Hon. Prince Amb. (Dr.) Adedipe Dauda Ewenla is the MD/CEO of Adedas Development Foundation. He holds multiple academic and professional qualifications, including BSc, B-Tech, MSc, and certifications in surveying, real estate, and security studies. He currently serves as PDP Southwest Ex-Officio.