Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has strongly condemned the arson attack on the Ilesa High Court 2, describing the incident as an unjustifiable assault on the state’s judiciary and a direct threat to democracy.
The attack, which occurred on Sunday night, led to the destruction of vital court documents, sensitive exhibits, and significant damage to the court building. By the time firefighters arrived, much of the building had already been consumed by flames, with files related to several high-profile cases reportedly lost.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Governor Adeleke called for a thorough investigation and directed security agencies to launch a manhunt to apprehend those responsible. He emphasized that the perpetrators must face the full weight of the law.
“This is not just a criminal act; it is a calculated attack on the rule of law and the democratic foundations of our state,” the governor stated.
To prevent future incidents, Governor Adeleke has ordered heightened security and surveillance around all court premises across Osun State. He also instructed the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice to work closely with the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure to begin immediate repairs and rehabilitation of the damaged court facility.
Reiterating his commitment to upholding justice, Governor Adeleke urged citizens and stakeholders to support efforts aimed at protecting judicial institutions from such acts of sabotage.
“The judiciary remains a vital pillar of our democracy. We must all rise to defend and preserve its sanctity,” he said.
