Ige: My Arrest Illegal, Says Omisore
From Kola Ologbondiyan in Abuja
Senator Iyiola Omisore, who returned to the Senate Plenary yesterday after his discharge by an Oyo State High Court over the murder of the late Federal Attorney General and Justice Minister, Chief Bola Ige, told his colleagues in the Senate that the arrest that led to his prosecution and subsequent discharge was "illegal."
Omisore, who was in jubilant mood throughout the sitting, stated this in a letter of appreciation addressed to his colleagues through the Senate President, Chief Adolphus Wabara, and dated July 25, saying the arrest was a violation of a court order issued by the Federal High Court on January 27, 2003.
"Justice D. D. Abutu ruled that my detention was unlawful, ordered my release from detention and even granted me leave to enforce my fundamental human rights. But today, I thank God the truth is proven.
"My dawn has come and my innocent has been proven. Great political leaders in history experienced worst set up but in most cases, the innocent is always vindicated. What is unique in my case, which is why I am most grateful, is that this chamber did not forsake me. You my colleagues at every point affirmed and re-affirmed the great precept in natural justice; that the accused should be presumed innocent until proven guilty.
"The last one year has been a very tortuous phase of my political career but my pain was assuaged by the unwavering backing I received from this hallowed chamber. My experience rekindles my hope that this chamber is not just the highest law making house in this federation but also composed of true statesmen and patriots who refused to sacrifice justice and fair play on the alter of political blackmail.
"Your resolute support for the rule of law has been vindicated. The just, no matter the level of persecution would not suffer the fate of the unjust. And no matter how thick the darkness may be, the dawn is always the unavoidable outcome.
"I want to achieve this distinguished chamber that I am back. I will do my best to collectively uplift the nation and my constituency through legislations and other appropriate legislative interventions. Our collective interest, I shall protect and national interest, I shall work tirelessly to advance," Omisore's letter read.
However, the Senate President also formally welcomed Omisore back to the Senate even as he described him as "chubby."
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