Olumide was arrested by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) over allegations including conspiracy to commit robbery and attempted murder. He consistently denied the accusations, describing them as politically motivated.
An Ekiti State High Court in Ado-Ekiti has dismissed the criminal case against Akogun Abayomi Olumide, popularly known as Lustay, the former Chairman of the Ekiti State Microcredit and Enterprise Development Agency.
Olumide, who had been in remand custody, faced a nine-count charge including conspiracy to commit robbery, armed robbery, attempted murder, unlawful possession of offensive weapons, and malicious damage. The court ruled that the prosecution failed to meet the legal threshold required to sustain the charges, leading to the dismissal of the case.
The charges, filed by the Ekiti State Government, had drawn public attention due to Olumide’s previous position in government. He had pleaded not guilty to all counts, insisting on his innocence.
The court’s ruling effectively ends the criminal proceedings against Olumide for now, though legal experts note that the state could refile charges if new evidence emerges.
Earlier reports had highlighted Olumide’s deteriorating health while in detention.
In January 2026, sources said he was hospitalised at the Ado-Ekiti Correctional Centre for diabetes-related complications, with restricted access to family and legal counsel. Supporters described his treatment as harsh and politically motivated.
Olumide was removed from office in August 2025 for alleged “gross misconduct.”
Following his dismissal, he accused Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration of victimisation for supporting a rival political figure, Engineer Kayode Ojo.
On January 1, 2026, Olumide was arrested by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) over allegations including conspiracy to commit robbery and attempted murder. He consistently denied the accusations, describing them as politically motivated.
Supporters claimed that after his arrest, Olumide was held incommunicado, pressured to renounce his political loyalty, and subjected to undue detention conditions.
In a separate development, Ojo petitioned the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, accusing the Ekiti State Police Command of brutality, illegal arrests, and political persecution of his supporters.
The petition named several individuals, including Olumide, alleging detention on “phantom charges” and violations of due process. Ojo also accused the judiciary of complicity in the alleged persecution.
The petition demanded the immediate release of detainees, withdrawal of charges, and transfer of investigations to Abuja to ensure neutrality and fairness.
Ojo warned that unchecked political persecution could push Ekiti State into a climate of repression and fear.