There was tension at the Lagos State High Court premises on Thursday when a lawyer, Obinna Okereke, Principal Partner of High Refuge Attorneys, allegedly assaulted a judicial officer, Temilola Ossai, following a minor collision with his vehicle.
As reported by Daily Post, the incident reportedly occurred near the court’s entrance when Okereke, who was driving a champagne gold-coloured Toyota Sienna, brushed Ossai, a staff member of the Lagos State Judiciary, as she walked along the roadside.
Eyewitnesses said the judicial officer confronted the lawyer and demanded an apology, but instead of expressing remorse, Okereke allegedly became enraged, hurled verbal insults, and punched her several times in the face.
The assault reportedly left Ossai bleeding from the nose and mouth before court users and bystanders intervened.
Security personnel attached to the Lagos State Judiciary quickly arrived at the scene and arrested the lawyer to prevent further chaos.
A witness, who preferred not to be named, said, “The lady only asked him to apologise after the car hit her, but he got angry and started shouting.
Before anyone could intervene, he struck her repeatedly. There was blood everywhere.”
The incident caused panic and temporarily disrupted court proceedings as shocked staff and litigants gathered at the scene.
Judicial sources said the Chief Registrar of the Lagos State Judiciary has directed that a formal complaint be lodged at the Area F Police Command for investigation and possible prosecution of the suspect.
Efforts to reach Okereke for comment were unsuccessful as of press time, while the victim reportedly received immediate first aid treatment following the assault.
Source: Daily Post