Nollywood actress Kate Henshaw recently engaged in a public dispute with a netizen. The disagreement stemmed from the acquittal of Dr. Olufemi Francis Olaleye in Nigeria. Dr. Olaleye was subsequently remanded in the United Kingdom.
Henshaw had voiced strong disapproval. She suggested that Justice Olukayode Bada of the appellate court in Lagos should feel ashamed. Justice Bada was reportedly involved in Dr. Olaleye’s acquittal. The actress highlighted that Dr. Olaleye now faces fresh charges abroad.
A netizen, operating under the username “Foundational Nupe Lawyer,” responded to Henshaw’s comments. He criticized her remarks as ignorant. He then proceeded to explain the intricacies of the Court of Appeal’s operations.
The lawyer clarified that a three-member panel presides over Court of Appeal cases. This means no single judge, such as Justice Bada, can solely acquit an individual. He also mentioned that appealing to the Supreme Court remains an option in legal proceedings.
Furthermore, the “Foundational Nupe Lawyer” argued that an acquittal in Nigeria does not determine the outcome of a separate case in the UK. He explained that these involve different alleged offences. They also concern different victims and distinct legal frameworks. He emphasized that legal systems base judgments on facts, evidence, and established law, rather than emotional appeals.
The netizen advised Henshaw to seek readily available basic legal information online. He urged her to avoid embarrassing herself publicly. He also cautioned against mobilizing public sentiment against the judiciary without full understanding.
In response, Kate Henshaw launched a scathing rebuttal. She used strong, derogatory language against the netizen. Her remarks further solidified her initial stance on the matter.
About the Author
