Koko Maxwella 
Abeokuta, Nigeria – A magistrates’ court in Ogun State arraigns a 43-year-old man over an alleged abortion plot linked to the death of a woman, sparking legal scrutiny.
The defendant, Abbas Olalekan, faces charges of conspiracy and unlawful procurement of abortion before the Abeokuta Chief Magistrates’ Court.
Prosecutor Lawrence Olu-Balogun tells the court the alleged offences occurred between January and March in Laderin, Abeokuta.
“He allegedly impregnated her and attempted to terminate the pregnancy by procuring drugs for abortion,” he says, adding that the substances may have contributed to her death.
Authorities state the defendant and the deceased were both members of the National Youth Service Corps.
The prosecution on Monday argues the actions contravene Sections 516 and 230 of Ogun State’s Criminal Code.
However, defence counsel Bunmi Adelabu insists on the presumption of innocence.
“The charge before the court does not state that the defendant caused the death,” he argues.
The defendant pleads not guilty.
Magistrate A.K. Araba grants bail at ₦500,000 with strict conditions, including two sureties and proof of tax payment.
Pending fulfilment, the court remands the defendant at Ibara Correctional Centre and adjourns the case to April 14.
Legal analysts say the case could test interpretations of criminal liability in abortion-related deaths under Nigerian law.
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Oluwafunbi Bello 
Korede Abdullah 
