An Ado-Ekiti Chief Magistrate’s Court has ordered the remand of the Vice Chairman of Ilejemeje Local Government Area, Grace Ogunleye, over allegations that she orchestrated her own kidnapping.
Chief Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun gave the order on Wednesday after Ogunleye was arraigned on charges linked to the alleged abduction drama.
The court directed that she be kept at the Ado-Ekiti Correctional Centre pending the duplication of the case file and its transfer to the Director of Public Prosecutions for legal advice.
Ogunleye was reported missing on May 20 after her vehicle was discovered abandoned along the Ipere-Iludun Ekiti Road, raising fears that she had been kidnapped.
Her disappearance prompted a search operation involving the police, military personnel and local security outfits before she was found the following day.
However, investigations by the police allegedly revealed that the incident was staged by the vice chairman to obtain funds for personal financial challenges and political obligations.
Following the outcome of the investigation, the matter was taken to court, which adjourned proceedings pending further directives from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Following the outcome of the investigation, the matter was taken to court, which adjourned proceedings pending further directives from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Reacting to the development, the Chairman of Ilejemeje Local Government, Pius Dada, described the alleged act as unfortunate, stressing that public office holders would not be shielded from prosecution. He warned that if such personalities are given preferential treatment, it could undermine public trust in government institutions and security agencies.
