Tension erupted on Wednesday at the Lagos State High Court after a lawyer, Obinna Okereke, Principal Partner at High Refuge Attorneys, allegedly assaulted a judicial officer, Temilola Ossai, following a minor collision involving his vehicle.

The incident reportedly occurred near the court’s entrance when Okereke, driving a champagne gold-coloured Toyota Sienna, brushed Ossai — a staff member of the Lagos State Judiciary — as she walked along the roadside.

Eyewitnesses said Ossai confronted the lawyer, demanding an apology for the incident. However, instead of apologizing, Okereke allegedly became enraged, hurled insults, and then physically attacked her, punching her several times in the face.

The assault reportedly caused heavy bleeding from her nose and mouth, drawing the attention of shocked onlookers, including lawyers, court users, and security personnel.

An eyewitness recounted:

“The lady only asked him to apologise after the vehicle hit her. Suddenly, he got angry and started shouting. Before anyone could react, he punched her repeatedly in the face. It was shocking; blood was coming out of her nose and mouth.”

Security operatives attached to the Lagos State Judiciary quickly intervened and arrested Okereke to prevent further violence.

The confrontation briefly disrupted court activities, as staff and security officials gathered at the scene in disbelief.

Sources within the judiciary said the Chief Registrar of the Lagos State Judiciary directed that a formal complaint be filed at the Area F Police Command for investigation and possible prosecution of the lawyer.

Efforts to reach Okereke for comment were unsuccessful as of press time.

Meanwhile, Ossai reportedly received first aid treatment for her injuries shortly after the incident.