There was delicate drama at a Federal High Court in Lagos on Friday when an actress and Abia State governorship candidate of the African Action Congress, AAC, Doris Ogala, broke down in tears and knelt earlier than the judge to beg for forgiveness.
Ogala appealed to Justice Akintayo Aluko, expressing regret over her outburst on Wednesday, which disrupted proceedings in a number of different circumstances earlier than the courtroom.
Ogala appeared earlier than the courtroom over a case bordering on alleged disobedience to a courtroom order and contempt proceedings instituted towards her.
Trouble began when the judge known as her case and frowned at her conduct, warning that her actions had been able to undermining the authority of the courtroom.
On listening to the judge’s remarks, Ogala was mentioned to have left the dock, walked to the entrance of the courtroom, knelt down and began pleading for mercy.
“My lord, I’m sorry. Please forgive me. I didn’t imply to disrespect this honourable courtroom,” she was heard saying whereas on her knees.
Her motion threw the courtroom into confusion, with legal professionals, litigants and journalists struggling to get a transparent view of the scene. Some courtroom officers had been seen making an attempt to calm her down.
Ogala acknowledged that her motion was not intentional and was because of a miscommunication from her authorized workforce.
The presiding judge, visibly shocked however sustaining composure, advised her to rise and respect the sanctity of the courtroom.
“This courtroom will not be a spot for theatrics. You have a lawyer who ought to communicate for you. Kneeling doesn’t change the info earlier than the courtroom. Stand up and permit your counsel to do his job,” the judge mentioned.
After a lot pleading, the judge urged her to be of excellent behaviour and to obey all courtroom orders going ahead.
Ogala, nonetheless in tears, promised to conform and thanked the judge for his leniency.
Speaking to journalists shortly after the courtroom session, one among her legal professionals mentioned they had been hopeful that the matter can be resolved amicably.
The matter was adjourned to November 6, 2026, for continuation of listening to whereas she was ordered stay on the Kirikiri Correctional Centre.
