By Deborah Nnamdi
A Chief Magistrate’s Court sitting in Ado-Ekiti has ordered the remand of the Vice Chairman of Ilejemeje Local Government Area, Grace Ogunleye, over her alleged involvement in a staged kidnapping incident.
Chief Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun issued the remand order on Wednesday following Ogunleye’s arraignment on multiple charges linked to the alleged self-orchestrated abduction.
The court directed that she be remanded at the Ado-Ekiti Correctional Centre pending the duplication of the case file and its transmission to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for legal advice.
Ogunleye was reported missing on May 20, 2026, after she was allegedly kidnapped along the Ipere–Iludun Ekiti Road. Her vehicle was later discovered abandoned by the roadside, sparking concern among residents and government officials.
The reported abduction prompted a large-scale search and rescue operation involving personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, the military, and local security operatives. She was eventually located on May 21.
However, investigations by the police reportedly uncovered evidence suggesting that the kidnapping was staged. According to preliminary findings, the alleged plot was designed to generate funds to address personal financial obligations and political commitments.
The development has generated widespread reactions across the state, given Ogunleye’s position as a serving local government official.
The matter has been adjourned pending further directives from the DPP after reviewing the case file.
Reacting to the incident, the Chairman of Ilejemeje Local Government Area, Pius Dada, condemned the alleged act, stressing that public office holders would not be protected from the consequences of unlawful conduct.
Dada described the incident as unfortunate and embarrassing, warning that such actions could erode public confidence in both government officials and security agencies. He reaffirmed the council’s commitment to accountability and the rule of law.
