In a chaotic turn of events on Monday, security agencies in Oyo State successfully thwarted an attempted disruption at the state High Court during the arraignment of Alhaji Mukaila Lamidi, commonly known as Auxiliary, the former Chairman of the Oyo State Park Management System.
Sources indicate that a group of thugs loyal to Auxiliary had gathered early in the morning, with reports of their presence around 7:30 a.m. They intended to create violence and chaos as Auxiliary arrived for his court hearing, where he faces serious charges including armed robbery, murder, and possession of firearms.
Recognizing the potential for unrest, court gatemen locked the main entrance while police conducted stop-and-search operations. The heavy deployment of security personnel, including police, military, and civil defense operatives, deterred the thugs from executing their plan. Observers noted that upon seeing the strong security presence, most of the individuals began dispersing and urged their associates to retreat for fear of arrest.
By the time a correctional vehicle brought Auxiliary to the court, many of the would-be disruptors had already been cleared from the premises. Auxiliary's recent fall from grace followed accusations of posing a security threat to Governor Seyi Makinde, despite his previous close ties with the state administration.
The heightened security around the courthouse was evident with patrol vehicles positioned strategically, and operatives from various security agencies closely monitoring the situation.
Auxiliary is currently being tried before Justice Olabisi Adetujoye in Fiat Court 5 of the state High Court, with charges detailed under Section 1(2)(a) and (b) of the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) Act of 2004. The case is officially listed as suit number I/74C/2024, with the state opposing Mukaila Lamidi (Auxiliary).