The Court of Appeal in Lagos is expected to deliver its verdict on Friday regarding the appeal filed by Dr. Olufemi Olaleye, the Medical Director of Optimal Cancer Care Foundation. Dr. Olaleye is challenging his conviction and life imprisonment for raping his wife’s teenage niece.
Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Lagos State Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court had convicted Dr. Olaleye in October 2023, sentencing him to life imprisonment.
Represented by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Kemi Pinheiro, Dr. Olaleye’s legal team filed a 35-ground appeal seeking to overturn the conviction. The defense argued that:
- There was no direct evidence confirming the alleged victim’s age, as no documentation was provided to prove she was 16.
- The alleged victim’s testimony contained contradictions, including her initial statement to the police, which did not accuse Dr. Olaleye of rape.
Pinheiro maintained that these inconsistencies undermined the prosecution's case, making the conviction untenable.
However, the prosecution countered, asserting that they had proven the charges of defilement and sexual assault by penetration beyond a reasonable doubt. They emphasized that the alleged victim’s age and evidence of sexual intercourse were sufficient to establish the offence, irrespective of consent.
The appellate panel, comprising Justices Olukayode Bada, Mohammad Sirajo, and Folasade Ojo, will rule on the appeal, which has drawn significant public attention.
The outcome of this case is expected to set a critical precedent in addressing sexual offences in Nigeria.
