NYSC Staff Arraigned in Ogun Over Corps Member's Tragic Death
In a distressing development, the police have arraigned a staff member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Ogun State, Abass Olalekan, before an Abeokuta Chief Magistrate's Court. The charges stem from the death of a corps member, Olapeju Ariyo, allegedly due to drugs supplied to terminate a pregnancy.
Details of the Charges and Court Proceedings
Olalekan, a resident of the Mosafuneto area in Oke Ata, Abeokuta, faces a two-count charge of conspiracy and attempt to procure an abortion by supplying drugs. Police prosecutor, ASP Lawrence Olu-Balogun, informed the court that the offences occurred between January and March in the Ikereku area, Laderin, Abeokuta. According to the prosecutor, Olalekan conspired with others, who are currently at large, to commit a felony related to abortion.
It was revealed that the defendant was involved in an affair with the late corps member, who was serving in Abeokuta at the time. The prosecutor asserted that the drugs procured by Olalekan to terminate the pregnancy were allegedly responsible for Ariyo's untimely death. The charges contravene Sections 516 and 230 of the Criminal Code Laws of Ogun State, 2006.
Defendant's Plea and Bail Application
During the court session, Olalekan pleaded not guilty to the charges. His counsel, Mrs. Bunmi Adelabu, applied for bail on the most liberal terms, citing Section 36 (5) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended). She argued that the charge did not explicitly state that the defendant was responsible for the death of the deceased.
Court's Decision and Bail Conditions
Magistrate A.K. Araba granted Olalekan bail in the sum of N500,000, with two sureties required to provide the same amount. The court specified that one surety must be a blood relative, while the other must be gainfully employed. Additional conditions include:
- Provision of a utility bill
- Deposition to an affidavit of means
- Submission of six passport photographs
- Evidence of 2026 tax payment to the Ogun State government
The defendant was ordered to be remanded at the Ibara Correctional Centre pending the perfection of the bail conditions. The case has been adjourned to April 14 for further hearing, as the legal process continues to unfold in this tragic incident.
