Diary of a Naija lawyer features a collection of remarkable experiences of Nigerian lawyers. Pull up a seat and enjoy this episode by Onome at the High Court.
My court experience with Onome
I was at the High Court the other day and whilst we were waiting for his Lordship to arrive, I noticed a fellow female learned colleague with her hair all over the place. Instantly I remembered what had happened to a female colleague earlier when she had her hair in cornrows popularly known as “shuku” in Yoruba. And because of the way the hair was wrapped, her hair couldn’t fit in the wig properly.
When she announced her appearance in court His lordship disregarded her and told her to get out of the courtroom before saying another word. The embarrassment on her face was so real that I vowed within myself not to violate the Judge’s rules as regards mode of appearance.
Anyways, knowing that he doesn’t condone improperly packed hair or outrageous hair colours. I tried to warn her beforehand but she was adamant about letting her braided hair loose under the wig. I left her to her fate and went on preparing for my case. Finally, his Lordship arrived and court proceedings began.
Guess what?
The senior counsel she came to court with announced his appearance. However, before the lady could stand to announce hers, his Lordship shunned her and asked her out of the court to appear before him properly before she could announce herself. He also went on to reprimand her senior for overlooking such an act. He then admonished the lawyers in court on the appropriate mode of dressing before the court. In addition, he urged them not to deviate from the standard and turn the courtroom into a circus.
Watch out for the next episode…
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