The Vice Chairman of Ilejemeje Local Government Area in Ekiti State, Grace Ogunleye, has been remanded in custody following allegations that she masterminded a false kidnapping incident to generate funds for personal and political commitments.
A Chief Magistrate’s Court sitting in Ado-Ekiti on Wednesday ordered her detention at the Ado-Ekiti Correctional Centre after she was brought before the court on charges stemming from the controversial incident.
The court, presided over by Chief Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun, directed that the case file be forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for review and legal guidance before further proceedings.
Ogunleye had reportedly been declared abducted on May 20, 2026, after her vehicle was discovered abandoned along the Ipere–Iludun Ekiti Road. The report triggered widespread concern and prompted a security operation involving police officers, military personnel, and local vigilantes.
She was later found safe the following day, bringing the search effort to an end.
Investigators, however, claim that subsequent findings pointed to a carefully planned disappearance rather than a genuine abduction. Police allege that the incident was designed to attract financial support aimed at settling certain obligations and advancing political interests.
The development has sparked reactions within the local government, with Chairman Pius Dada describing the allegation as deeply troubling and warning that such actions could erode public confidence in both elected officials and security institutions.
The case has been adjourned while authorities await legal advice from the DPP.