Ado-Ekiti – An Ado-Ekiti Chief Magistrate’s Court has ordered the remand of Grace Ogunleye, Vice Chairman of Ilejemeje Local Government Area, over allegations that she orchestrated her own abduction.
Chief Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun issued the remand order on Thursday after Ogunleye was arraigned on charges linked to the alleged fabrication of her disappearance. The court directed that she be held at the Ado-Ekiti Correctional Centre pending duplication of the case file and transfer to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for legal advice.
Ogunleye was reported missing on May 20, 2026, after her vehicle was found abandoned along the Ipere–Iludun Ekiti road, triggering a large-scale search involving police, military, and local security operatives. She was found and rescued the following day.
Police investigations, however, reportedly uncovered evidence suggesting the abduction was staged. Investigators allege the plot was designed to raise funds for personal financial obligations and political commitments.
The case has been adjourned to allow the DPP to review the file and advise on further prosecution.
Reacting to the development, Ilejemeje LGA Chairman Pius Dada condemned the alleged act as “unfortunate” and warned it could damage public trust.
“Occupying public office will not shield anyone from accountability,” Dada said, stressing that all individuals found wanting must face the full weight of the law. He added that false abduction claims risk undermining confidence in government institutions and security agencies at a time when Nigeria continues to grapple with genuine cases of kidnapping and insecurity.
