A senior NYSC official, Abass Olalekan, in Ogun State, is facing charges over the death of corps member Victoria Ariyo, who’s believed to have died from complications after an abortion. Olalekan, who’s the Local Government Inspector for Abeokuta South, allegedly had a romantic relationship with Victoria, which led to her pregnancy and subsequent abortion.
He’s been arraigned on two counts of conspiracy and unlawful procurement of abortion, and has pleaded not guilty.
According to the prosecution, led by Inspector Lawrence Olu-Balogun, the defendant allegedly worked with others who are still at large to obtain drugs intended to end the pregnancy.
The court heard that the incident occurred between January and March in the Ikereku area of Laderin, Abeokuta, and that the substances given to the victim were linked to her death.
Authorities claim the offences violate provisions of the Ogun State Criminal Code. Olalekan, however, denied the allegations in court.
His lawyer, Mrs Bunmi Adelabu, urged the court to grant bail on lenient terms, arguing that the charges do not directly establish that her client was responsible for the young woman’s death.
In her ruling, Magistrate A.K. Araba granted bail set at ₦500,000 with two sureties in like sum. The court specified that one surety must be a relative, while the other must be employed, with both required to provide valid documents, including tax clearance and proof of residence.
Until the bail conditions are met, the defendant will remain in custody at the Ibara Correctional Centre.
