Adeleke orders probe as arsonists set Ilesa court ablaze
By Ismail Azeez, Osogbo
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has ordered a full-scale investigation after suspected arsonists set fire to the Ilesa High Court 2 in Ilesa West Local Government Area, reducing the entire facility to rubble and destroying sensitive judicial documents in the process.
The attack, which occurred late Sunday night, led to the complete razing of the courthouse, including case files, exhibits, and other vital legal materials. It has sent shockwaves through the legal community and drawn sharp condemnation from the state government.
Responding swiftly, Governor Adeleke described the incident as a “cowardly and unjustifiable assault” on the state’s judicial system. In a statement released on Monday by his spokesperson, the Governor directed security agencies to begin an immediate and thorough investigation to unmask and prosecute those behind the act.
“The burning of Ilesa High Court 2 by unidentified criminals is a direct assault on the judiciary, which serves as the stabiliser and critical arbiter of our democratic process,” the statement read.
The Governor further ordered the deployment of enhanced security measures across all court premises in Osun State to prevent any recurrence.
Although officials from the Osun State Fire Service were quickly dispatched to the scene, they arrived too late to salvage the structure. By the time the fire was brought under control, the building had been extensively damaged and numerous sensitive court documents irreparably lost.
Adeleke also instructed the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice to work in close coordination with the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure to commence immediate reconstruction efforts at the affected courthouse.
“This act of arson is not only a criminal offence but also a dangerous threat to our democracy and the rule of law. The judiciary deserves protection and respect, not violence and destruction,” the Governor stated.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to defending democratic institutions and ensuring that justice is neither obstructed nor intimidated by criminal elements.
Security agencies have since launched initial investigations, and officials say surveillance footage from surrounding areas may assist in identifying the perpetrators.
The Ilesa High Court 2 was one of the key judicial facilities serving Osun’s western region. The attack is expected to disrupt legal proceedings in the area until rehabilitation is completed.
