A magistrate court in Isabo has granted bail to Abass Olalekan, a local government inspector of the National Youth Service Corps in Abeokuta South, over allegations of procuring abortion leading to the death of a corps member, Victoria Ariyo. The incident occurred on the penultimate Tuesday.
The charges against Olalekan include conspiracy and unlawful attempted procurement of abortion for the corps member, by supplying her with drugs. This offence is punishable under section 230 of the law.
Prosecutor Lawrence Olu-Balogun alleged that Olalekan and others at large conspired between January and March 2026, at the Ikereku area of Laderin, Abeokuta, to commit felony, contrary to Section 516 of the Criminal Code Laws of Ogun State, 2006.
Olalekan, who was in a romantic relationship with Ariyo before her demise, pleaded not guilty to all the charges. His defence counsel, Elizabeth Adelabu, applied for bail, citing the offences as bailable, referencing 36(5) of the 1999 Constitution.
The presiding magistrate, A.K. Araba, granted Olalekan bail of ₦500,000 with two sureties in like sum, one of which must be a blood relative, while the other must be gainfully employed. The magistrate also required both sureties to provide a utility bill, affidavit of means, six passport photographs, and evidence of 2026 tax payment.
Olalekan was remanded at the Ibara Correctional Centre custody, pending the perfection of bail conditions, and the case was adjourned until April 14 for further hearing.
The bail granted to Abass Olalekan raises questions about the severity of the charges against him. While the law is clear on the consequences of procuring abortion, the circumstances surrounding Victoria Ariyo's death need to be thoroughly investigated. The fact that Olalekan's defence team cited constitutional provisions to secure bail suggests that the prosecution may have a weak case. This development has significant implications for the National Youth Service Corps, as it highlights the need for stricter policies on staff conduct and accountability. The NYSC must take concrete steps to prevent such incidents in the future.
