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 instances 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 in opposition to her.
Trouble began when the judge known as her case and frowned at her conduct, warning that her actions have been able to undermining the authority of the courtroom.
On listening to the judge’s remarks, Ogala was stated to have left the dock, walked to the entrance of the courtroom, knelt down and began pleading for mercy.
“My lord, I am sorry. Please forgive me. I did not mean to disrespect this honourable court,” she was heard saying whereas on her knees.
Her motion threw the courtroom into confusion, with attorneys, litigants and journalists struggling to get a transparent view of the scene. Some courtroom officers have been seen making an attempt to calm her down.
Ogala said that her motion was not intentional and was on account of a miscommunication from her authorized crew.
The presiding judge, visibly stunned however sustaining composure, instructed her to rise and respect the sanctity of the courtroom.
“This court is not a place for theatrics. You have a lawyer who should speak for you. Kneeling does not change the facts before the court. Stand up and allow your counsel to do his job,” the judge stated.
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, considered one of her attorneys stated they have been hopeful that the matter could 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.
