LG Vice Chairman Remanded Over Alleged Self-Kidnapping

An Ado-Ekiti Chief Magistrate's Court has ordered the remand of the Vice Chairman of Ilejemeje Local Government Area, Mrs. Grace Ogunleye, over allegations that she masterminded her own kidnapping.

The Chief Magistrate, Mr. Abayomi Adeosun, gave the order on Thursday following her arraignment on charges relating to the alleged fabrication of her abduction.

The court directed that Ogunleye 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 declared missing on May 20, 2026, after her vehicle was found abandoned along the Ipere–Iludun Ekiti Road, sparking concerns over her safety and prompting an extensive search operation.

The search involved personnel from the Nigeria Police Force, the military, and local security outfits. She was subsequently found and rescued the following day.

However, police investigations later allegedly uncovered evidence suggesting that the reported kidnapping had been staged.

According to investigators, the alleged plot was aimed at raising funds to offset personal financial obligations and meet certain political commitments.

Following the completion of preliminary investigations, the matter was brought before the court for prosecution. The case was thereafter adjourned to enable the Director of Public Prosecutions to review the case file and provide legal advice on the next course of action.

Reacting to the development, the Chairman of Ilejemeje Local Government Area, Mr. Pius Dada, described the alleged act as unfortunate and capable of eroding public trust in government institutions.

He maintained that holding public office does not place anyone above the law, stressing that anyone found culpable must be made to face the full consequences of their actions.

Dada further warned that false kidnapping claims could undermine public confidence in security agencies and government authorities, particularly at a time when the nation continues to battle genuine cases of abduction and insecurity.