Tension broke out at the Lagos State High Court, Tafawa Balewa Square, as a suspect assaulted a journalist during court proceedings.
The incident occurred during the scheduled arraignment of three defendants standing trial over an alleged land forgery and property demolition case in Lekki.
The suspect, identified as one of the defendants, reportedly assaulted Ayodele Adeniran, a photojournalist with The Guardian, for attempting to take photographs outside the courtroom.
Eyewitnesses said the suspect physically dragged the journalist and demanded to inspect his camera. The situation calmed only after Adeniran proved no photos had been taken.
The court prepared to arraign Adebayo Akeju, a partner at Adon Partners; Ademola Owolabi, managing partner at Ademola Adetokunbo & Co.; and real estate developer Alex Ochonogor.
The Lagos State Government brought the five-count charge, numbered LD/23611C/2024, accusing the defendants of conspiracy, forgery, and wilful destruction of property.
Justice Serifat Sonaike presided over the proceedings. The Lagos State Director of Public Prosecutions, Dr. Babajide Martins, appeared for the state.
The first and second suspects were represented by Dr. Abiodun Layonu (SAN) and A.A. Durojaiye, respectively.
Tony Ejere, counsel for the third defendant, told the court that Ochonogor suffered a medical emergency and rushed to Lagoon Hospital.
Justice Sonaike granted an adjournment and directed the defence to file all necessary documents before the next hearing.
The court also ordered that Ochonogor must appear at the next session for his arraignment.
According to the charge sheet, the suspects allegedly forged an affidavit of loss and demolition notice in 2015 to claim a missing Certificate of Occupancy.
The fake documents reportedly referenced a property originally owned by Hamza Al-Mustapha. They also allegedly forged a memorandum of loss.
Prosecutors alleged that the defendants used the forged papers to justify demolishing a bungalow at Plot 10, Block 133, Lekki Peninsula Scheme 1.
The property reportedly belongs to Dr. Obidigwe Eze, a Nigerian residing abroad.
Court proceedings will resume on the adjourned date set by Justice Sonaike.
