The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has ignited a legal firestorm in Osun State, demanding the arrest and prosecution of the state’s House of Assembly Speaker, Wale Egbedun. The accusations? Obstructing the execution of a court order and assaulting a lawyer in the process.
Lawyer Claims Assault During Court Order Enforcement
Muideen Adesina, a lawyer representing the Gbaemu Royal family of Osogbo, alleges he was executing a court order on a disputed piece of land when he encountered resistance. According to Adesina, security personnel assaulted him while he was carrying out his legal duties. He further claims that Speaker Egbedun arrived at the scene and, after a heated exchange regarding the court order, his presence emboldened the security aides to launch their attack.
Egbedun’s spokesperson, Tiamiyu Olamide, vehemently denies the assault allegations. Olamide’s account paints a different picture. He claims the Speaker intervened after receiving reports of forceful eviction attempts on the land. Olamide insists Egbedun attempted to mediate the situation and denies giving any orders for an assault on the lawyer.
NBA Demands Action, Citing Potential Criminal Offenses
The NBA is not swayed by the Speaker’s explanation. They argue that Egbedun’s alleged actions constitute serious criminal offenses. The NBA claims his interference with the court order and the lawyer’s assault violate specific sections of Nigeria’s Criminal Code. They contend that Egbedun’s actions, if proven true, amount to “waging war against the judicial arm of the state” and “abuse of office.”
Furthermore, the NBA emphasizes Egbedun’s sworn duty to uphold the law. They point to Section 287(3) of the Nigerian Constitution, which mandates that public officials, including the Speaker, ensure court orders are enforced. The NBA argues that Egbedun’s alleged actions directly contradict this constitutional obligation.
The legal body is urging the police to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident. They demand that anyone found responsible for obstructing the court order and assaulting the lawyer be brought to justice.
Unfolding Drama Raises Questions About Rule of Law
This legal battle raises critical questions about the rule of law in Osun State. The NBA’s accusations, if substantiated, paint a concerning picture of potential interference with the justice system by a high-ranking official. The Speaker’s defense hinges on a different narrative, highlighting the need for a transparent investigation.
Nigerians across the country are watching this situation unfold with keen interest. The outcome of the investigation and any potential legal proceedings will have significant implications for the state’s legal system and the conduct of public officials. The NBA’s strong stance sends a clear message that attempts to obstruct court orders and assaults on legal professionals will not be tolerated.
Source: Punch
