LG Vice Chair Remanded Over Alleged Self-Orchestrated K!dnap

The Vice Chairman of Ilejemeje Local Government Area of Ekiti State, Grace Ogunleye, has been remanded at the Ado-Ekiti Correctional Centre following her arraignment before a Chief Magistrate’s Court over allegations of conspiracy and self-kidnapping.

Ogunleye was arraigned on Wednesday alongside three other defendants before Chief Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun on multiple charges linked to an alleged staged abduction that drew widespread attention across the state. The court subsequently ordered her remand pending the duplication of the case file and its transmission to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for legal advice.

The controversy stems from an incident on May 20 when the council vice chairman was reported kidnapped along the Ipere–Iludun Ekiti Road. Her vehicle was later discovered abandoned by the roadside, triggering anxiety among residents and prompting a coordinated rescue operation involving the police, military and local security operatives. She was subsequently found the following day.

However, investigations by security agencies reportedly uncovered evidence suggesting that the alleged abduction was orchestrated. According to preliminary findings, the incident was allegedly staged as part of efforts to raise funds to address financial commitments and political obligations.

The development has generated significant public reaction, particularly given the growing concerns over insecurity and kidnapping incidents in parts of Ekiti State. Prior to the emergence of the allegations, local government authorities and residents had expressed fears over the reported abduction and called for intensified security measures in the area.

Reacting to the matter, the Chairman of Ilejemeje Local Government, Pius Dada, described the alleged act as disturbing and unacceptable. He stressed that no public office holder would be shielded from investigation or prosecution, insisting that the law must be allowed to take its course regardless of status or political position.

The case has been adjourned pending further directives from the Director of Public Prosecutions, while security agencies continue investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident.