Ogun Court Arrest: Afam Osigwe, SAN Condemns Violation Of Sanctity Of The Courtroom By DSS Operatives
Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, has strongly condemned the recent invasion of the Ogun State High Court in Ilaro by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS). During an ongoing trial, DSS agents arrested two defendants, Fatai Isiaka and Samuel Oyero, who were facing charges of alleged arson connected to the Obaship crisis in Agosasa town, Ipokia local government area.
Osigwe described the incident as a significant violation of the defendants’ rights and a severe breach of the judiciary’s sanctity and independence. He emphasized that courts are sacred institutions where justice must be administered without intimidation or interference, and the DSS’s actions undermine the rule of law and erode public trust in the legal system.
“The sanctity of the courtroom must be preserved at all costs,” Osigwe stated, urging all law enforcement agencies to respect the judiciary’s independence and adhere to due process. He warned that the brazen nature of this invasion sets a dangerous precedent, threatening the foundations of democratic society.
Osigwe called on the DSS leadership to address this grave misconduct immediately. He demanded that the operatives involved be identified, held accountable, and subjected to appropriate disciplinary measures to restore public confidence in judicial and security institutions.
He also recommended that relevant authorities implement stringent measures to prevent such incidents from recurring. He suggested training and sensitization programs for security personnel to ensure they understand and respect the boundaries of judicial proceedings.
In his final remarks, Osigwe urged collective efforts to uphold the rule of law, protect the judiciary’s integrity, and ensure justice is administered without fear or favor. He stressed that maintaining the separation of powers and mutual respect between government branches is crucial for building a just and equitable society.
