Weeks After Court Nullified Rape Conviction, Lagos Doctor Femi Olaleye Regains Freedom

Dr. Femi Olaleye, a Lagos-based physician, has regained his freedom after the Lagos Court of Appeal overturned his rape conviction.

Olaleye was initially convicted in October 2023 by the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court, Ikeja, for defiling his wife’s 16-year-old niece. The court had ruled that the prosecution proved the charges of defilement and sexual assault by penetration.

Following his conviction, Olaleye’s lawyer, Kemi Pinhero (SAN), filed an appeal in November 2023, arguing that there was no direct evidence confirming the alleged victim’s age. On November 29, 2024, the appeal court overturned the conviction, stating that the prosecution failed to present documentation proving the victim’s age. The court subsequently discharged and acquitted Olaleye.

Celebrating his release on Instagram, Olaleye shared photos of himself leaving prison on December 3, captioned:
“Freedom is not just a release—it is a rebirth. And on Tuesday, 03/12/24, my new chapter began! @drfemi is back and active!”