The Local Government Inspector (LGI) of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Abeokuta South, Ogun State, Abbas Olalekan, has been arraigned before an Isabo Magistrates’ Court over alleged conspiracy and attempted procurement of abortion.
Olalekan’s arraignment follows the death of a female corps member, Victoria Ariyo, who reportedly died last Tuesday from pregnancy-related complications.
The prosecutor, Assistant Superintendent of Police Lawrence Olu-Balogun, told the court that the offences occurred between January and March in the Ikereku area of Laderin, Abeokuta.
Olalekan pleaded not guilty to the two charges preferred against him. His counsel, Bunmi Adelabu, applied for bail, citing Section 36(5) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
Magistrate A.K. Araba granted bail in the sum of ₦500,000 with two sureties of like sum, stipulating that one must be a blood relative and the other gainfully employed. Olalekan was remanded at Ibara Correctional Centre pending the fulfillment of bail conditions. The case was adjourned to April 14 for further hearing.
Sources allege that Olalekan and the deceased were in a relationship that resulted in the pregnancy. Ariyo, who was serving at the local government, reportedly died from complications following a termination of pregnancy.
In a statement last Saturday, NYSC Director of Information and Public Relations, Caroline Embu, confirmed that a staff member was under investigation. “The NYSC is deeply saddened by the loss of a Corps Member under circumstances that are currently being investigated. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and pray for the peaceful repose of her soul,” the statement read.
