Despite strong outcry from Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), the Lagos State Government has yet to file an appeal against the Court of Appeal’s judgment that nullified the rape conviction of Dr. Femi Olaleye, a prominent medical practitioner and managing director of Optimal Cancer Care Foundation.
Dr. Olaleye was convicted in October 2023 by the Lagos Special Offences and Domestic Violence Court for child defilement and sexual assault by penetration. However, the Court of Appeal overturned the conviction in November 2023, citing errors in the lower court’s judgment and declaring the prosecution’s evidence as “tainted” and “unreliable.”
CSOs have since petitioned Lagos State Attorney General, Lawal Pedro (SAN), urging him to appeal the decision to the Supreme Court by the deadline of December 28, 2024, in order to restore public confidence in the justice system. However, as of the latest reports, sources within the Lagos State Ministry of Justice have confirmed that no plans have been made to pursue an appeal.
It was further revealed that although the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) office had prepared the grounds for appeal, no subsequent action has been taken, raising concerns about the Lagos State Government’s commitment to upholding justice.
Connect with us on our socials: