The Lagos State Government has urged the Supreme Court to uphold the conviction of Dr. Femi Olaleye, a medical practitioner found guilty of defiling his wife’s 16-year-old niece.
In its appeal before the apex court, the state government argued that both the trial court and the Court of Appeal were right in convicting Olaleye, insisting that the evidence presented during trial was overwhelming and credible.
According to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), the appeal seeks to prevent miscarriage of justice and affirm the lower courts’ decisions that found Olaleye guilty beyond reasonable doubt.
“The state has presented sufficient evidence establishing the crime, and we are confident that the conviction should stand,” the DPP said. “This case is not only about one victim but also about reinforcing public confidence in the justice system.”
Olaleye, who had earlier been sentenced by a Lagos High Court, had approached the Court of Appeal to challenge the ruling, arguing that the prosecution failed to prove its case. However, the appellate court upheld the conviction, prompting him to take the matter to the Supreme Court.
The case, which has attracted widespread public attention, is viewed as a test of Nigeria’s commitment to justice in sexual assault cases, particularly those involving persons in positions of trust.
Legal observers say the Supreme Court’s final decision will likely set a significant precedent for similar cases and strengthen protections for minors against sexual abuse.
