In a dramatic turn of events in Osun State, elected chairmen and councillors under the All Progressives Congress (APC) staged a protest at the entrance of the State High Court in Osogbo, raising concerns over what they described as judicial irregularities and government interference.

The protest, which drew public attention, was directed at both the Osun State Judiciary and the state government. The aggrieved officials expressed dissatisfaction over the ongoing trial involving staff of the United Bank for Africa (UBA), alleging that the legal proceedings were designed to intimidate and harass the bank and its employees.

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Speaking to journalists during the protest, the Chairman of Ejigbo Local Council Development Area, Olayanju Kolapo, strongly criticized what he termed as blatant disregard for court rulings. He accused the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke of undermining judicial processes and ignoring valid court orders.

Kolapo further alleged that despite the matter being pending before higher courts, including the Court of Appeal, a magistrate proceeded with the case, effectively overruling decisions of the High Court. According to him, such actions represent a dangerous precedent and a clear violation of the rule of law.

“This is an unprecedented level of disrespect for judicial authority,” he stated, warning that continued disregard for court orders could erode public confidence in the justice system.

However, the protest has not gone without criticism. The Osun Grassroots Watch, through its Executive Director, Dr. Yemisi Adetona, dismissed the demonstration as unnecessary and ill-conceived. She questioned the involvement of local government officials in a matter she described as primarily between a commercial institution and relevant legal authorities.

Dr. Adetona also cautioned against actions that could be interpreted as attempts to influence or pressure the judiciary. She emphasized the importance of allowing judges and magistrates to carry out their duties independently, without external interference.

Adding to the criticism, the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), Osun State chapter, condemned the protest in strong terms. The union described the action as harassment and intimidation directed at judicial officers.

In a statement signed by its chairman, Idris Adeniran, JUSUN warned that such demonstrations pose a direct threat to the independence and sanctity of the judiciary. The union urged political actors to respect legal institutions and avoid actions that could undermine the rule of law.

The unfolding situation highlights growing tensions between political stakeholders and judicial authorities in Osun State. As debates continue, observers stress the need for restraint and adherence to constitutional processes to safeguard democratic governance.