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 ...