NBA CONDEMNS ALLEGED COURTROOM INCIDENT, SAYS NO JUDGE CAN ORDER LAWYER TO KNEEL

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has expressed strong concern over a reported incident at the Federal High Court in Abuja involving Justice Mohammed Umar and a legal practitioner, Marshall Abubakar.

According to reports, the incident occurred on Monday, March 16, 2026, during proceedings involving activist Omoyele Sowore. Mr. Abubakar, who appeared as lead defence counsel, was allegedly ordered by the presiding judge to step out of the Bar and kneel down after raising his voice while addressing the court on the suitability of a hearing date. The judge was also said to have threatened committal for contempt.

In a statement issued by its President, Afam Osigwe (SAN), the NBA described the development as troubling, noting that it raises serious concerns about the dignity of the legal profession and the sanctity of the courtroom.

The association emphasized that while judges have the authority to maintain order and discipline in court, such powers must be exercised within the confines of the law and established judicial procedures. It stressed that directing a lawyer—or any individual—to kneel is not a recognized judicial sanction under Nigerian law and falls short of expected standards of judicial conduct.

“The courtroom is a temple of justice governed by law, procedure, and decorum,” the statement noted, adding that any act deemed contemptuous must be addressed through due legal process.

The NBA also reminded legal practitioners of their duty to uphold professionalism, urging lawyers to remain respectful and restrained in court, even when expressing disagreements.

Reaffirming the importance of mutual respect between the Bar and the Bench, the association called for calm and urged that any grievances arising from courtroom incidents be handled through appropriate institutional and disciplinary channels.

The NBA further assured that it may engage relevant authorities, where necessary, to ensure adherence to the rule of law, professional standards, and judicial ethics.

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