OSOGBO, Nigeria – Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has strongly condemned the arson attack on the Ilesa High Court, describing it as a criminal assault on the state’s judiciary.
The incident, which took place in the early hours of Monday, April 21, 2025, resulted in the complete destruction of the court building and the loss of sensitive documents and exhibits.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Malam Olawale Rasheed, Adeleke called for a thorough investigation into the attack and directed security agencies to take swift action to apprehend those responsible.
He further instructed that security measures be heightened at all court premises across the state to prevent future incidents.
“The attack on the Ilesa High Court is a direct assault on the very foundation of our democracy.
The judiciary remains the critical arbiter of justice, and such actions undermine the integrity of our democratic process,” Adeleke said in the statement.
“A thorough investigation must be conducted, and the perpetrators must face the full consequences of their actions.”
The governor also directed the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice to collaborate with the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure for the immediate rehabilitation of the destroyed court building.
Eyewitnesses reported that the fire, which completely engulfed the building, led to the destruction of vital court records, making it impossible to salvage much before the state fire service arrived.
Despite their efforts, the fire had already caused irreparable damage to the structure.
Governor Adeleke emphasized that the judiciary must be protected and supported, as it plays an indispensable role in upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice.
“The judiciary needs our support, not violence,” he stated.
