Osun Gov Adeleke demands probe as fire razes Ilesa High Court
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has called for a thorough investigation into the suspected arson that led to the burning of the Ilesa High Court 2 building. Security sources reported that the building was set ablaze on Sunday evening, raising concerns about the involvement of arsonists.
According to The PUNCH, three judges were actively using different courtrooms within the Ilesa High Court premises at the time of the incident. Justice A. Aderibigbe, the Presiding Judge, conducts sessions in Court 1, while the other two judges are assigned to Court 2 and Court 3, located in the same building.
In a statement released by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Adeleke condemned the attack, characterizing it as “an unjustifiable assault on the state judiciary.” The governor noted that the incident resulted in the destruction of sensitive court documents and exhibits, with the building suffering considerable damage.
Despite the prompt response from the state fire service, they arrived to find the scene already devastated. Reports confirmed that vital files related to significant court cases were lost in the fire.
Adeleke emphasized the importance of conducting a thorough investigation to identify and apprehend those responsible for the crime, insisting that security agencies enhance surveillance around court facilities. He also directed the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice to collaborate with the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure for the urgent rehabilitation of the damaged building.
Highlighting the implications of the attack, Adeleke warned that such actions threaten democracy, reiterating the judiciary’s critical role in maintaining democratic stability and calling for protection rather than assaults on it.
In response to inquiries for clarification, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Osun Command, Abiodun Ojelabi, confirmed that investigations have already begun. However, the specific cause of the fire has yet to be determined, and it was reported that the fire affected the warder’s room and another office.
Source: PUNCH
