Fire Destroys High Court; Governor Calls for Investigation
By Our Correspondent
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has called for an investigation into the suspected arson that led to the destruction of the Ilesa High Court 2 building. Security sources reported that the building was set ablaze on Sunday evening, raising suspicions of arson.
Investigations by our source revealed that three judges are currently using different courtrooms within the Ilesa High Court premises.
Justice A. Aderibigbe, who is the presiding judge, holds court in Court 1, while two other judges are assigned to Court 2 and Court 3, both located within the same building.
In a statement signed by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Governor Adeleke condemned the burning of the Ilesa High Court 2 building, labeling it “an unjustifiable attack on the state judiciary.”
He expressed dismay at the incident, noting that it resulted in the destruction of sensitive court documents and exhibits, with the building largely reduced to rubble.
The state fire service was dispatched to the scene; however, by the time they arrived, the damage had already been extensive. Reports indicated that important files related to significant court cases were destroyed in the fire.
Adeleke urged security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation to identify the perpetrators and ensure they face justice.
He also directed security agencies to enhance surveillance at various court buildings throughout the state.
Furthermore, the Governor instructed the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice to collaborate with the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure for the swift rehabilitation of the burned building.
He emphasized that such an attack poses a threat to democracy and underlined the judiciary’s role as a stabilizer and critical arbiter in the democratic process, urging for support rather than aggression towards it.
When contacted for further clarification, the Public Relations Officer of the Osun State Police Command, Abiodun Ojelabi, stated that an investigation had already begun.
He noted, “The cause of the fire has not yet been determined. It affected the warder’s room and one other office. An investigation into the cause of the fire is currently underway.”
