Woman Collapses, Dies During Court Proceedings in Edo

A 52-year-old woman, identified as Titilayo Akindele, has died after collapsing during proceedings at the Federal High Court in Benin City, Edo State.

The incident occurred on Tuesday and has triggered concerns about the treatment of detainees and the availability of medical care within court facilities.

According to accounts from individuals present in the courtroom, Akindele had been in detention for approximately three months before being brought to court. Observers noted that she appeared visibly weak and in poor health.

She had initially been arraigned a day earlier and was instructed to present a medical report, which she did not provide. When her case resumed on Tuesday, witnesses said she was unable to sit or stand unaided.

Shortly after her case was called, Akindele reportedly collapsed in the courtroom, causing immediate alarm among legal practitioners, court officials, and other attendees.

Attempts were made to revive her, but the absence of on-site medical support complicated emergency response efforts. She was later confirmed dead.

Following the incident, court proceedings were suspended for the day. Her body was subsequently moved to a mortuary.

The case involving Akindele was filed by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). As of the time of this report, the Edo State Command of the agency has not released an official statement.

Sources, however, indicate that an internal review may be initiated.