Nigerian activists have expressed strong support for the decision of a United Kingdom court to remand a Lagos-based medical doctor, Dr. Femi Olaleye, over allegations of sexual crimes. The development marks a significant step in international efforts to hold individuals accountable for alleged offences committed across borders.
Arrest and Court Proceedings in the UK
Dr. Femi Olaleye, aged 57, was arrested by UK authorities at Gatwick Airport in London on Thursday, November 27, 2025. He was taken into custody by the North Kent Police for interrogation upon his arrival from Nigeria.
The following week, on Friday, December 5, he was brought before the Medway Magistrates’ Court. The court ordered that Dr. Olaleye be held in custody until January 2, 2026, pending his trial for alleged sexual offences. The magistrate denied his application for bail.
The charges against him in the UK are related to his previous work as an Obstetrics and Gynaecology doctor. The allegations state that the offences occurred while he was employed at Darent Valley Hospital under the Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust. This period spanned from January 2005 to September 2008.
Nigerian Activists Hail UK Action, Cite Local Precedent
Reacting to the news, Nigerian civil society groups described the UK court's action as a form of vindication for earlier judicial efforts in Nigeria. In a joint statement, representatives from the Centre Against Injustice and Domestic Violence (CAIDOV) and the Bruised But Not Broken Foundation commended Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Lagos State Sexual Offences Court.
Justice Oshodi had, in a 2023 ruling, sentenced Dr. Olaleye to life imprisonment in Nigeria. That conviction was related to separate charges of sexual abuse and defilement involving his wife’s niece over an 18-month period in 2022. The activists praised the judge for his thorough handling of that case based on survivor evidence and diligent prosecution.
They stated that the UK arraignment clearly indicates Dr. Olaleye has a case to answer regarding allegations of being a serial sexual offender. The groups also used the opportunity to call on Nigeria's Supreme Court to diligently review the Lagos State Government's appeal against Dr. Olaleye's subsequent acquittal by the Court of Appeal, Lagos Division.
Implications for Cross-Border Justice
This case underscores the growing importance of international cooperation in tackling serious crimes like sexual offences. It highlights how legal systems in different countries can work to ensure that individuals accused of crimes are held accountable, regardless of where the alleged acts were committed.
The remand of Dr. Olaleye in the UK sends a strong message about the pursuit of justice across jurisdictions. It also reinforces the stance of Nigerian activists and judicial officers who have been pushing for accountability in sensitive cases of sexual violence.
