The Local Government Inspector of the National Youth Service Corps in Abeokuta South Local Government Area of Ogun State has been arraigned before an Isabo Magistrates’ Court over alleged conspiracy and attempt to procure abortion following the death of a female corps member.
Abbas Olalekan was charged in connection with the death of Victoria Ariyo, a corps member who reportedly died last Tuesday from pregnancy complications.
The prosecutor, Assistant Superintendent of Police Lawrence Olu-Balogun, told the court that the defendant committed the offences between January and March at Ikereku area, Laderin, Abeokuta.
Olalekan pleaded not guilty to the two charges preferred against him.
Counsel for the defendant, Bunmi Adelabu, applied for bail in the most liberal terms, citing Section 36(5) of the 1999 Constitution.
Magistrate A. K. Araba granted the defendant bail in the sum of ₦500,000 with two sureties in like sum. One of the sureties must be a blood relative, while the other must be gainfully employed.
The magistrate ordered that the defendant be remanded at the Ibara Correctional Centre pending perfection of the bail conditions. The case was adjourned until April 14 for further hearing.
Ariyo, who was serving in the local government, allegedly died from complications after terminating her pregnancy. Sources alleged that the LGI and the deceased were in a relationship that led to the pregnancy.
In a statement last Saturday, NYSC Director of Information and Public Relations, Caroline Embu, confirmed that a staff member of the agency was under investigation in connection with the incident.
The NYSC said it was “deeply saddened by the loss of a Corps Member… under circumstances that are currently being investigated.”
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased and pray for the peaceful repose of her soul,” the NYSC added.
