The Ogun State Government has moved swiftly to counter claims circulating online about the case of Abass Olalekan, a Local Government Inspector with the National Youth Service Corps in Abeokuta South. The government has clarified that the bail granted to Mr Olalekan on March 23, 2026, was based solely on the bailable nature of the charges and does not reflect the strength or quality of the evidence. This move comes after the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Oluwasina Ogungbade (SAN), took over the prosecution of the case from the State Police Command.
The Attorney-General's office has confirmed that the charges against Mr Olalekan are based on findings from a police investigation. The investigation alleges that Mr Olalekan was in a relationship with the deceased, Victoria Olapeju Ariyo, who was reportedly pregnant at the time of her death. The government has described claims questioning the credibility of evidence and suggesting missing witnesses as "false and misleading."
The case remains at a preliminary stage, and the government has urged the public and media to allow the court process to run its course. The Attorney-General has warned against speculation that could undermine confidence in the judicial process.
The Ogun State Government's swift action to counter online claims is a welcome development. However, the fact that the case has been taken over by the Attorney-General's office raises questions about the handling of the investigation. The public expects a thorough and transparent probe into the circumstances surrounding the death of Victoria Ariyo. The government must ensure that justice is served and that those responsible for any wrongdoing are held accountable. The decision to grant bail to Mr Olalekan has sparked controversy, and the government must provide clear evidence to justify this decision. The case highlights the need for the government to prioritize the safety and well-being of corps members serving in the state.
