The recent judgment by the Court of Appeal in Lagos has acquitted Dr. Olufemi Olaleye, overturning his earlier life sentence for sexual assault and defilement of a minor. Dr. Olaleye, the Medical Director of Optimal Cancer Care Foundation, was previously convicted by the Lagos State Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court, which found compelling evidence supporting the charges.
The appeal court's ruling signifies a critical shift in the case, as it dismissed the prosecution's evidence that had been deemed sufficient by the lower court. This decision follows an earlier judgment in October, where the appeal was reserved for review.
The case has attracted significant public attention due to its sensitive nature and the high-profile status of the defendant. The acquittal may raise discussions around the judicial process, evidentiary standards, and societal responses to sexual assault cases.