Family demands justice after death of Ogun corps member in controversial abortion case

The family of Ariyo Victoria Olapeju, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member who died following a controversial abortion in Abeokuta South Local Government, Ogun State, is demanding justice, insisting that while her death cannot be undone, those responsible must be held accountable.

In an exclusive interview on Frontline, a current affairs programme on Eagle 102.5 FM, Ilese-Ijebu, Ogun State, Adebola Adeyemo, counsel to the family, revealed that Ariyo was initially deployed to Cross River State under the NYSC scheme before being transferred to Abeokuta South Local Government.

“The deceased was Ariyo Victoria Olapeju, a serving corps member at Abeokuta South Local Government of Ogun State. She was initially deployed to Cross River State for her service, then later redeployed to Abeokuta South Local Government.

While there, she was engaged in a relationship with the LGI of the local government, which led to pregnancy. The LGI facilitated the abortion with the help of a nurse, and unfortunately, this led to her death,” Adeyemo explained.

Adeyemo emphasized that the family’s pursuit of justice is not only about the tragedy but also about safeguarding future corps members.

“We want justice to be seen and done. Those responsible, including the LGI and any accomplices, must be held accountable. The nurse will face court proceedings as necessary,” she said.

According to Adeyemo, the LGI directly facilitated the abortion through a nurse.
“The LGI provided the deceased with the contact of the nurse. She called the nurse, and the abortion was carried out. Unfortunately, the pregnancy was ectopic. The procedure was not properly conducted and affected her internal organs, which led to her death,” she stated.

The counsel described the relationship as exploitative, citing the abuse of authority.

“Ordinarily, the relationship between a LGI, a local government inspector, and a NYSC corps member should be strictly official. When the corps member is involved in a personal relationship with the LGI, it becomes exploitative. The office of the LGI is supposed to safeguard corps members; anything outside that scope is abuse of authority.”

Allegations Against LGI and Nurse
The family has petitioned the police, alleging gross misconduct, sexual exploitation, and conspiracy against the LGI.

“During the investigation, the police discovered a conspiracy in aiding and abetting the unlawful abortion,” Adeyemo said. She added that the nurse involved is also being held responsible, noting,

“There is a case of conspiracy and unlawful abortion involving the LGI, the deceased, and the nurse. The LGI paid the nurse for her role in the procedure.”
Adeyemo stressed the duty of care owed by the NYSC to corps members.

“NYSC must safeguard corps members and ensure harassment and exploitation are forbidden. They have been cooperating with us, attending the police station with family members, and providing support.”

“On March 23, 2026, the LGI was arraigned in court. Before then, he was in police custody. We noticed the charge sheet seemed to downplay the gravity of the case. The LGI was charged with conspiracy and attempt to procure an abortion, but the charge did not state that the abortion led to the corps member’s death. The prosecutor’s comments suggested bias, as he implied there was ‘love’ between the two, which was inappropriate.”

She added that crucial evidence, including statements from the nurse and earlier police reports, was initially missing. Following concerns, the family petitioned the Ogun State Attorney General, whose office has now taken over the prosecution. The nurse was subsequently arraigned on March 26 on four counts, including conspiracy to commit felony, unlawful attempt to procure abortion, conspiracy to commit murder, and murder.

“Investigations were incomplete before the LGI was rushed to court. Key witness statements, including the nurse, were not included in the proof of evidence. We petitioned the AG, and the office has now taken over prosecution,” Adeyemo said.
The next court session is scheduled for April 14, 2026, when consolidation of charges is expected.

The Elegant Nurses Forum (ENF) issued a statement claiming the nurse is not culpable. Adeyemo countered: “The ENF has no legal power to interfere in criminal proceedings. They can provide statements and legal support, but adjudication is the court’s responsibility. Investigation is the police’s duty. The court will decide the case.”

Ogun State Attorney General Oluwasina Ogungbade (SAN) confirmed that the case is under his supervision. Both parties are scheduled to meet to discuss the matter further.

Adeyemo urged corps members to report abuse immediately.
“If they find themselves in vulnerable situations, they should contact the Zonal Inspector or involve their parents. NYSC has been cooperating and will not hide wrongdoing. This tragedy highlights the need for stronger safeguards and strict enforcement of professional boundaries to prevent abuse.”

As Ogun State authorities prepare for the April 14 court session, the public and stakeholders remain focused on ensuring that the legal process is thorough, transparent, and fair