Drama in Ibadan! Auxiliary ‘Slumps’ in Court, Judge Fumes and Summons Prison Doctor

By Our Judiciary Correspondent

IBADAN — There was mild drama and confusion at the Oyo State High Court, Ring Road, on Tuesday as the trial of the former Oyo State Park Management System (PMS) Chairman, Alhaji Mukaila Lamidi, popularly known as Auxiliary, was stalled due to a sudden medical emergency.

The session took a chaotic turn when the embattled transport boss, who had reportedly arrived at the court looking “hale and hearty,” suddenly took ill just moments before his case was called.

Witnesses in the courtroom were left in shock during a short recess. While waiting for the judge to resume sitting, a crowd gathered around Auxiliary.

“He was fine earlier, but suddenly people were pouring water on his head. Others were frantically applying ‘Aboniki’ balm on his legs,” an eyewitness revealed.

Correctional Centre officers reportedly called for backup, and Auxiliary was assisted out of the courtroom by officials and family members. However, sources claim a “miraculous” recovery occurred outside, alleging that the defendant “actually walked with his own legs” to the waiting vehicle.

The situation did not sit well with the Presiding Judge, Justice Adetujoye.

When the court resumed, Auxiliary’s counsel, Olalekan Ojo (SAN), announced that his client had been taken away due to sickness. Visibly angered, Justice Adetujoye queried why the court was not informed before the defendant was removed from the premises.

The Prosecutor, O.S. Tella, explained the chaotic scene, but the Judge insisted that the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) officials disregarded court protocol by whisking the defendant away without permission.

Refusing to let the matter slide, the Court has issued an immediate summons for the Medical Doctor of the Agodi Custodian Centre.

The doctor is ordered to appear in court tomorrow (Wednesday) to provide a professional explanation regarding Auxiliary’s health status.

“If the defendant is confirmed to be truly sick, we will pick another date. But the true situation must be ascertained,” the Judge ruled.

The case has been adjourned to Wednesday, January 21, for the doctor’s testimony and further hearing.