Why I stormed Supreme Court with juju attire – Lawyer

A human rights lawyer and activist, Chief Malcolm Omirhobo, Thursday, caused a mild drama with his appearance at the Supreme Court in Abuja during a proceeding.

Omirhobo, a Delta state born activist and constitutional lawyer, appeared in an unusual attire when he matched his lawyer robe with feathers on his wig while other traditional apparels were hanging all over his body and cloths.

Though peaceful in his protest all through the sitting, the activist who tied red wrapper around his waist also had cowries and amulets hanging all over his body.

His unusual outfit for a court outing temporarily disrupted proceedings as all eyes were on him.

Some went as far as leaving their seat to catch a glimpse and snap pictures.

Apparently embarrassed by the sight, the judges rose and resumed five minutes later. Although our correspondent could not immediately ascertain reasons for the action of judges, but as soon as they left, the activist lawyer also stepped out of the courtroom.

With cameras and newsmen after him, the protesting lawyer was accosted by journalists to explain why he dressed the way he did.

Omirhobo told newsmen that he is an ‘Olookun’ devotee (River goddess) and that his outfit was against the backdrop of the recent verdict of the Supreme Court which legalised the wearing of hijab to schools and public places in Nigeria.

Omirhobo said: “I am very grateful to the Supreme Court for taking a resounding decision that promotes section 38 of the 1999 constitution.

“Henceforth, this is how I would be dressing as I am an adherent of Olookun river goddess.

“The decision stresses the importance of sect 38 of the 1999 constitution that says all religious adherents are free to wear their religious costumes in schools and public space.

“After all, Nigeria is a multi-religious country. So, anyone that tries to stop me from dressing like this is infringing on my constitutional rights.

“The pronouncement of the apex court is that we can bring religion into the public space and I have just demonstrated that by joining this proceeding dressed as an Olokun devotee,” Omirhobo stated.