The Ogun State Police Command has taken a significant step in the investigation into the death of Ariyo Victoria Olapeju, a corps member who served in the Abeokuta South local government area. Abbas Olalekan, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) official, has been arraigned on a two-count charge related to the incident.
The charges against Olalekan include felony and the unlawful supply of drugs intended to cause a miscarriage. According to the charge sheet, the prosecution alleges that between January and March 2026, Olalekan conspired with others to commit the conspiracy of abortion in the Ikereku area of Laderin, Abeokuta. This act is a violation of Section 516 of the Criminal Code Laws of Ogun State, 2006.
In the second count, the police alleged that Olalekan unlawfully attempted to procure an abortion by supplying drugs to the deceased. This offense is punishable under Section 230 of the same Criminal Code. The defendant pleaded not guilty to both charges and was granted bail in the sum of N500,000 by the presiding magistrate.
The case has been adjourned till 14th of April, 2026. Meanwhile, Olalekan's counsel, Barr. Bunmi Adelabu, expressed concerns about the investigation, questioning the necessity of the case and the lack of evidence.
The arraignment of Abbas Olalekan, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) official, over the death of Ariyo Victoria Olapeju, a corps member, raises serious questions about the safety and well-being of young Nigerians serving in the NYSC. The fact that Olalekan was granted bail despite facing serious charges highlights the need for stricter accountability within the NYSC. The case also underscores the importance of proper investigation and evidence gathering in cases involving sensitive issues like abortion. As Nigerians, we expect the authorities to ensure that those responsible for such incidents are brought to justice. The Ogun State Police Command must be commended for taking this step, but the case is far from over. The court's decision to adjourn the case till April 14, 2026, suggests that there is still much work to be done to ensure justice is served.
