An official of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Ogun State, Abass Olalekan, has been taken into police custody following the death of a female corps member, Victoria Ariyo.
Ariyo, who was serving in Abeokuta South Local Government Area, reportedly died on Tuesday from complications linked to pregnancy.
Olalekan serves as the Local Government Inspector (LGI) for Abeokuta South. Sources revealed that the deceased allegedly terminated the pregnancy before developing complications that later led to her death. She was buried at Kobape Cemetery along the Kobape-Sagamu Road in Abeokuta.
Her death comes weeks after another corps member, Adeleye Mary, also died under unclear circumstances in the same local government area. Mary was serving at Ogun State Television as her Place of Primary Assignment, and both women were said to have been close.
Sources within the NYSC alleged that Olalekan may have been involved in a personal relationship with the late Ariyo.
Confirming the development, a police source stated, “He is in our custody at the command’s headquarters, Eleweran, Abeokuta.”
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Oluseyi Babaseyi, confirmed the incident but declined to speak on the reported arrest.
“I can confirm that the case of the demise of Victoria Ariyo is under investigation by the State Criminal Investigation Department,” he said.
What you should know
The case has raised serious concerns about the welfare and safety of corps members, particularly regarding relationships with officials and access to proper medical care.
The involvement of law enforcement suggests a thorough investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of death and any potential misconduct.
The recent death of another corps member in the same area has further heightened attention, prompting calls for accountability and improved oversight within the NYSC system.
