Tensions are running high in Osun State after a pregnant banker, Mrs. Awanat Ajayi, gave birth while being held in the Ilesa Correctional Facility.
Ajayi, one of several bankers implicated in a high-profile fraud case, has been in custody for months, sparking widespread outrage over her prolonged incarceration.
The case, which has drawn significant public attention, revolves around Talabi Adeniyi, a First Bank manager, and the alleged misuse of ₦650 million intended for Proof of Fund (POF) transactions. Ajayi, who worked under Talabi, was arrested after reportedly collecting money from a Magistrate as part of the POF scheme.
The deal fell apart when the funds went missing, leading to Ajayi’s arrest.
In court, Ajayi was arraigned for allegedly collecting ₦10 million from Magistrate Oyindamola Daramola.
Despite her lawyer’s oral bail application, citing her imminent delivery and pre-existing health conditions, including Hepatitis B, Ajayi was remanded in custody.
Her bail conditions, set in August, were described as stringent, requiring a deposit of ₦5 million and sureties, including a monarch and a senior officer.
This has delayed her release, despite her critical health needs.
This week, during a court hearing, her counsel revealed that Ajayi had given birth through a Cesarean section.
Magistrate Olusegun Ayilara addressed the development, emphasizing that the birth was not grounds for discharge, as her bail conditions remained unmet.
The court stated that only a higher court could modify the bail terms.
The ongoing detention of Mrs. Ajayi, particularly in light of her recent childbirth, has continued to fuel public debate and concerns about her treatment while in custody.
