Abbas Olalekan, a 43-year-old National Youth Service Corps employee, has been arraigned in court for his alleged role in the death of a corps member. The prosecution claims that Olalekan had an affair with the deceased, impregnated her, and then attempted to terminate the pregnancy by supplying her with abortion drugs. This allegedly led to her death. Olalekan is charged with conspiracy and the unlawful attempt to procure an abortion. He pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The court heard that the offence occurred between January and March in the Ikereku area of Laderin, Abeokuta. The prosecutor, Lawrence Olu-Balogun, alleged that Olalekan conspired with others to commit the felony. The defendant's counsel, Bunmi Adelabu, applied for bail, arguing that the charge did not indicate that Olalekan was responsible for the deceased's death. The magistrate, A.K. Araba, granted Olalekan bail in the sum of N500,000 with two sureties.
The National Youth Service Corps must take responsibility for the actions of its employees, such as Abbas Olalekan, who allegedly used his position to exploit a corps member. The fact that Olalekan is accused of attempting to procure an abortion, which led to the death of the corps member, raises serious questions about the corps' oversight and accountability. The Ogun State government must ensure that justice is served in this case, and that those responsible are held accountable. The case highlights the need for stronger protections for corps members and stricter enforcement of laws against abortion and exploitation. Ultimately, the outcome of this case will have significant implications for the safety and well-being of young Nigerians serving in the National Youth Service Corps.
