Omirhobo makes U-turns, appears in court without native doctor attire

Controversial lawyer and human rights activist, Malcolm Omirhobo, has dropped his ‘native doctor’ attire during his last appearance in court.

Omirhobo stirred controversy last Thursday at the Supreme Courtafter he appeared in court in a lawyer’s gown with a traditional costume.

However, on Wednesday reverted to a normal lawyer’s dress code.

Omirhobo appeared at the Federal High Court in Lagos on Wednesday morning in full wig, gown, black trousers and shoes.

He said “the spirit” asked him to “go normal,” adding that he would revert to his religious garb again if directed.

Responding to journalists’ enquiries, Omirhobo said, “I’m led by the spirit to go normal today. Don’t be surprised if you see me the other way tomorrow. So, today is normal.”

When asked whether “the spirit” was in conformity with the ethics of the legal profession and dress code, the lawyer said, “What ethics are you talking about? Are you insulting my religion? Don’t try it, don’t insult my religion. The constitution, according to the Supreme Court, says I should dress according to my religious attire and you are insulting the Supreme Court, behave yourself.”

He explained that he was exercising his right to religious freedom following the hijab ruling.

Ezekiel said, “My name is Dennis Ezekiel. I’m a Christian, a Catholic and I’m professing my religion by appearing like this in court. It is my right, enshrined in Section 38 of the 1999 Constitution and laid down, enunciated by the Supreme Court (in its) judgment (on hijab). So, we have that constitutional right to profess our religion without hindrance.”