For years, the case of Dr Olufemi Olaleye gripped the public, symbolising the fight against sexual violence and the quest for justice.
The Medical Director of the Optimal Cancer Care Foundation, Olaleye was once celebrated for his contributions to healthcare.
However, his conviction for allegedly raping his wife’s niece cast a shadow over his reputation, leading to a life imprisonment sentence that many believed marked the end of his professional and personal freedom.
Court Nullified Dr Olufemi Olaleye Conviction
Yet, in a dramatic turn of events, the Appeal Court, Lagos Division, on Friday nullified the conviction, delivering a verdict that has sparked intense debates about the intricacies of justice and due process.
The three-judge panel, led by Justice Olukayode Bada, discharged and acquitted Dr Olufemi Olaleye after finding the lower court’s judgement flawed.
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This decision, though controversial, highlights the critical importance of credible evidence and fair judicial practices in upholding the rule of law.
Reason
The appellate court concluded that the prosecution’s case lacked credible evidence, particularly regarding the victim’s age.
It noted: “Credible and reasonable doubt was created in the prosecution’s case.”
Furthermore, the court criticised the trial court for relying on evidence from witnesses who could not verify the victim’s birth circumstances.
This verdict reverses the October 24, 2023, decision by Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Lagos State Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court, who had ruled that the prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.
