By Michael Ofulue, Osogbo

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The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Osogbo branch, has strongly condemned the recent arson attack on the Osun State High Court in Ilesa, which resulted in the destruction of court documents and infrastructure.

The NBA stated that it was worrisome that such a dastardly attack was happening again, having recorded one a few years ago in Court Three, where the chambers of a judge were razed.

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Mr. Yemi Abiona, the NBA described the incident as a “heinous attack” that poses a serious threat to justice delivery and the rule of law.

The association wondered what the perpetrators of such an attack on a courtroom intended to achieve, describing it as the handiwork of faceless cowards and ignoramuses.

“Though the cause of this arson is still subject to investigation, indications show that the inferno cannot be an act of God. We only wonder what the perpetrators intend to achieve by setting fire to courtrooms where documents are kept.”

The NBA commended Governor Ademola Adeleke’s swift response in directing thorough investigations and increasing security measures.

“We urge security agencies to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice,” the statement read.

The association volunteered to provide free legal services to prosecute whoever is behind the arson and charged the police to leave no stone unturned in conducting a thorough investigation into the incident.

The NBA called on the governor and the head of the judiciary to provide enhanced security for court premises and support affected court staff and stakeholders.

The NBA Osogbo branch stands in solidarity with colleagues and the judiciary, demanding protection for courts and personnel. “Together, we can uphold the integrity of our justice system,” the statement concluded.