There was mild 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 before the judge to beg for forgiveness.
Ogala appealed to Justice Akintayo Aluko, expressing remorse over her outburst on Wednesday, which disrupted proceedings in several other cases before the court.
Ogala appeared before the court over a case bordering on alleged disobedience to a court order and contempt proceedings instituted against her.
Trouble started when the judge called her case and frowned at her conduct, warning that her actions were capable of undermining the authority of the court.
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Lawyer explains why Nnamdi Kanu’s conviction is ‘dead on arrival’ at Court of AppealOn hearing the judge’s remarks, Ogala was said to have left the dock, walked to the front of the court, knelt down and started pleading for mercy.
“My lord, I am sorry. Please forgive me. I did not mean to disrespect this honourable court,” she was heard saying while on her knees.
Her action threw the courtroom into confusion, with lawyers, litigants and journalists struggling to get a clear view of the scene. Some court officials were seen trying to calm her down.
Ogala stated that her action was not intentional and was due to a miscommunication from her legal team.
The presiding judge, visibly surprised but maintaining composure, told her to rise and respect the sanctity of the court.
“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 said.
After much pleading, the judge urged her to be of good behaviour and to obey all court orders going forward.
Ogala, still in tears, promised to comply and thanked the judge for his leniency.
Speaking to journalists shortly after the court session, one of her lawyers said they were hopeful that the matter would be resolved amicably.
The matter was adjourned to November 6, 2026, for continuation of hearing while she was ordered remain at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre.
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