American Woman Jailed For Pinging In Lagos State Court

An American who is the Co – Executive Director of Community Legal Support Initiative was locked up by the judge at the court’s waiting cell for about 10minutes, after an angry Justice Ofili-Ajumogobia walked her out.

Megan Chapman who was seated at the last bench, directly facing the judge, did not know that Justice Ofili-Ajumogobia was noticing her as she was with her phone. After Justice Ajumogobia asked her to leave the court, she directed her support staff to escort the American to the waiting cell, where she stayed for about 20 minutes. She however later ordered her release following appeals from lawyers in court.

Confirming the incident, Chapman said she has learnt her lessons, adding that her action was not intentional.

According to Chapman:
“I was replying an urgent message. It was not like I intentionally disrespected the court but I have learnt my lessons. I have apologised to the court for my action.. The prison officers were kind to and treated me well in the short period I was there.”

Chapman said she came in respect of a fundamental rights suit her group filed against the Ojora of Lagos, Chief Abdul Fatai Aromire.